JP2017131346A - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To perform a variety of control related to a free game.SOLUTION: There are provided: a display part having a symbol display area capable of displaying symbols and a benefit display area capable of displaying value of obtained benefit; and a control part performing a variety of control. The control part determines whether or not a prescribed condition is satisfied and, when it is determined that it is satisfied, starts a free game. In the free game, a plurality of symbols including symbols where numerical value is shown are re-arranged in the symbol display area and, on the basis that the symbols showing the numerical value are re-arranged in the symbol display area, the numerical value is added up to the value of benefit display area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, there has been known a slot machine (an example of a gaming machine) that scrolls and displays a plurality of types of symbols and then stops and displays coins (an example of a game medium) based on a combination of symbols that have been stopped (a winning pattern). It has been.

  Furthermore, in such slot machines, there is a slot machine that executes a free game when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the game (for example, a specific symbol is stopped and displayed) (see Patent Document 1). . A free game is a game that can be started without betting a game medium, and can be played without consuming the game medium.

US Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0146315

Since a free game is a game that can be played without consuming game media, in general, a player plays a game with a strong interest in moving to a free game.
Further, when the game is shifted to the free game, there is a possibility that the profit is increased without consuming the game medium, and as a player, the expectation for the profit that can be obtained by the free game is increased.
However, simply increasing the probability of moving to a free game or increasing the profits that can be earned from the free game will cause the player to feel that the free game is monotonously shifted and digested. .

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that executes various controls related to a free game.
In addition, the objective of this invention, the subject, and the effect (benefit) are understood from description of the claim itself, and should not be unfairly interpreted by the following description.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a gaming machine according to the present invention includes:
A display unit having a symbol display area capable of displaying a symbol and a profit display area capable of displaying a value of the acquired profit;
A control unit for performing various controls,
The controller is
Determine whether or not the predetermined conditions are met, and if so, start the free game,
In the free game, a plurality of symbols including symbols with numerical values are rearranged in the symbol display area,
The numerical value is added to the value of the profit display area based on the rearrangement of the symbol indicating the numerical value in the symbol display area.

In the above configuration, various controls relating to the free game are executed such that when the symbols with numerical values shown in the free game are rearranged, the numerical values are reflected as they are in the profits obtained.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can directly grasp the profits obtained each time the symbols are rearranged, so that a situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided.

In this gaming machine,
The control unit determines the numerical value based on the number of BETs used in the game when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied.

In the above configuration, various controls relating to the free game are executed such that the symbol value is determined based on the BET number used in the game when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can increase the number of BETs so that the number of symbols used in the free game increases, and the player's involvement can be encouraged. Can be increased.

In this gaming machine,
The display unit further includes a gaming chip display area capable of displaying gaming chips,
The control unit adds the numerical value to the profit display area and stacks and displays the gaming chips indicated by the numerical value in the gaming chip display area.

In the above configuration, various controls related to the free game are executed such that the gaming chips indicating the rearranged symbol values are stacked and displayed in the gaming chip display area.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can more effectively realize the profits gained by looking at the stacked gaming chips, so that the situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided. Become.

In this gaming machine,
The plurality of symbols are provided in a plurality of symbol columns,
The symbol display area includes a plurality of columns and a plurality of rows.
The control unit adds each of the numerical values to the value of the profit display area one by one according to a predetermined order based on a plurality of symbols having the numerical values rearranged in the symbol display area. It is characterized by doing.

In the above configuration, based on the fact that a plurality of symbols with numerical values are rearranged in the symbol display area, each value of the rearranged symbols is set to one value in the profit display area according to a predetermined order. Various controls related to the free game are executed.
According to the above-described configuration, for example, the player can feel the earned profit more by seeing the value of the profit display area added one by one, so that the free game progresses monotonously. Can be avoided.

  According to the present invention, various controls related to free games can be executed.

FIG. 16 is a view illustrating an example of an embodiment in a gaming machine. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an internal configuration of a gaming machine. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a functional flow of the gaming machine. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a functional flow of the gaming machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the connection structure of a game system. It is a block diagram of a game system. It is a block diagram of a PTS system. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a slot machine in the gaming machine. FIG. 10 is an electrical block diagram of the gaming machine. It is a figure which shows an example of a game flow. It is a figure which shows an example of a screen structure of a lower image display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of a screen structure of a lower image display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen structure of an intermediate image display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen structure of an intermediate image display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of a reel position. It is a figure which shows an example of position data. It is a figure which shows the image of an effective payline. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a symbol row | line | column. It is a figure which shows an example of a denomination setting range. It is a figure which shows the correspondence of a play line button and the number of active paylines. It is a figure which shows the correspondence of a setting and BET magnification. It is a figure which shows an example of a payout table. It is a figure which shows an example of a payout table. It is a figure which shows an example of the order which performs a feature game. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a prescription | regulation table. It is a figure which shows an example of the correspondence of the symbol in a normal game and a free game. It is a figure which shows an example of the table which prescribed | regulated the order of accounting. It is a figure which shows an example of an accounting process. It is a figure which shows an example of a payout regulation value table. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of the table which prescribed | regulated the progressive level. It is a figure which shows an example of the combination of an allowable setting. It is a figure which shows an example of the combination of an allowable setting. It is a figure which shows an example of the result of a jackpot game. It is a figure which shows an example of a lottery table. It is a figure which shows an example of a fixed payout table. It is a figure which shows an example of a progressive setting table. It is a figure which shows an example of a progressive setting table. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a normal game execution process. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a jackpot related process. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a selection game execution process. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of free game A execution process. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a free game B execution process. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a jackpot game challenge process. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a jackpot game execution process. It is a figure which shows an example of a WIN effect. It is a figure which shows an example of a WIN effect. It is a figure which shows an example of a WIN effect. It is a figure which shows an example of a definite effect. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of the specific aspect of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the specific aspect of a slot machine. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gaming machine according to another embodiment.

(Outline of gaming machine which is one embodiment of the present invention)
A gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a view illustrating an example of an embodiment in the present gaming machine. The outline of the gaming machine will be described by taking the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 as an example.

  This gaming machine can execute a base game and a bonus game. The bonus game includes a plurality of free games including a first free game and a second free game that is more advantageous than the first free game, a jackpot game (JP game), and a selection game. The plurality of free games include a free game that draws a combination of the number of free games and a payout rate, and a free game with a chance of a jackpot game.

In a normal game, when a predetermined condition (in this example, condition A, condition B, and condition C are illustrated), a bonus game corresponding to the condition is executed.
Condition A is satisfied when the first winning combination is established (for example, when the first symbol is stopped and displayed more than the first number (ANY POSITION)).
The condition B is satisfied when the second winning combination is established (for example, when the second symbol is stopped and displayed more than the second number (ANY POSITION)).
Condition C is satisfied when the first winning combination and the second winning combination are established.

(Bonus game corresponding to condition A)
When the condition A is satisfied, first, the selection game is executed. In the selection game, the contents of a plurality of options associated with either the first free game or the second free game are provided in a state where they cannot be visually recognized on the screen, and the options can be selected. Instead of the selected game, a lottery game that determines which free game to execute according to whether or not the lottery result is correct may be adopted.

  When the first free game is selected, the first free game is executed and the end condition is satisfied (a predetermined number of free games is executed, or the number of free games determined by lottery is executed). The first free game ends and the normal game is executed. In the first free game, when the first winning combination is established, the first free game is retriggered.

  When the second free game is selected, the second free game is executed and the end condition is satisfied (a predetermined number of free games is executed, or the number of free games determined by lottery is executed). The second free game ends and the normal game is executed.

For a third symbol (for example, a JP symbol) that is stopped and displayed in the second free game, a lottery (first lottery) to give only a fixed payout and a jackpot game that can win a jackpot game A lottery (second lottery) is carried out as to whether or not to move to.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player is expected to rearrange the third symbols in which the first lottery and the second lottery (the lottery based on the symbols acquired during the free game) are performed in the second free game. As a result, the situation where the second free game progresses monotonously can be avoided.

(Bonus game corresponding to condition B)
When the condition B is satisfied, the second free game of the plurality of free games is executed (when the second symbol is stopped and displayed for the second number or more, the second free game is won). More specifically, when the second symbol is stopped and displayed more than the second number, the first free game with no possibility of acquiring the jackpot game and the second possibility of acquiring the jackpot game are displayed. The second free game is directly triggered without going through the selection game with the free game. According to the above configuration, for example, the second symbol is rearranged because the second free game is directly executed from among the plurality of free games without the selection (selection operation) of the option by the player. Every time, the expectation to the transition to the second free game that can be given a jackpot game can be increased.

  As described above, the gaming machine is provided with a plurality of triggers for the same type of free game. For example, the second free game can be executed when the condition A is satisfied and when the condition B is satisfied. According to the above configuration, for example, even if the first symbol is rearranged or the second symbol is rearranged, the transition to the second free game can be expected. The situation where the transition to the game becomes monotonous can be avoided.

(Bonus game corresponding to condition C)
When the condition C is satisfied, the free game selected in the selected game is executed in the order of the second free game. In other words, in this gaming machine, the free game digestion order when the free game is triggered simultaneously is determined in advance. According to the above configuration, for example, after executing the free game (first free game or second free game) related to the selection operation, the second free game to which the jackpot game can be awarded is executed. You will be able to maintain your expectations for winning the jackpot game. Further, according to the above configuration, for example, even if the first free game can be triggered further in the first free game, the second free game is performed thereafter, and the jackpot game is acquired. Since the expectation can be maintained, it is possible to avoid the situation where the free game shifts monotonously.

(Free game)
In the free game (for example, the second free game), the value of the symbol stopped and displayed during the free game is added. For example, when $ 50 chips and $ 100 chips are displayed on the screen during the free game, the amount of each chip is added to the WIN meter. According to the above configuration, for example, the player can directly grasp the profits obtained each time the symbols are rearranged, so that a situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of the gaming machine 2000. The gaming machine 2000 includes an input unit 2001, a display unit 2002, a control unit 2003, a communication unit 2004, a storage unit 2005, and an image control unit 2006. Note that devices that realize the components 2001 to 2006 may differ depending on the type of the gaming machine 2000, such as a slot machine, a personal computer, a smart phone, or a tablet.

  The input unit 2001 is configured to be able to input various information to the gaming machine 2000 based on various operations (player operations) by the player. A physical button, a physical keyboard, a mouse, a user interface displayed on a liquid crystal touch panel, and the like function as the input unit 2001.

  The display unit 2002 is configured to display symbols and the like. An LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a liquid crystal touch panel, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, and the like function as the display unit 2002.

  The control unit 2003 is configured to be able to control the constituent elements 2001, 2002, and 2004-2006. A central processing unit (CPU), a micro-control unit (MCU), a motherboard, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a video card (graphic board), and the like function as the control unit 2003.

  The communication unit 2004 is configured to be communicable with a base station in the network, in other words, configured to be communicable with a device connected to the network. A communication device including wired communication and wireless communication (for example, a communication module for wired LAN, wireless LAN, and mobile phone communication) functions as the communication unit 2004.

  The storage unit 2005 is configured to be capable of storing various types of information (programs, tables, etc. relating to control of the gaming machine 2000). A ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a silicon disk, a hard disk, and the like function as the storage unit 2005.

  The image control unit 2006 is configured to be able to control image display and display effects of the display unit 2002. A CPU, GPU, motherboard, video card (graphic board), and the like function as the image control unit 2006. The control unit 2003 may be configured to realize a part or all of the functions of the image control unit 2006. Note that when the control unit 2003 realizes all the functions of the image control unit 2006, the image control unit 2006 may not be provided.

(Outline of gaming machine)
The “slot machine” is a type of game terminal in the gaming machine 2000 (gaming machine 300). In the present embodiment, the slot machine 10 is described as an example of a game terminal. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a model having a terminal controller that can independently execute some base game is used as the game terminal. Applicable.

  The base game in this embodiment is executed by the slot machine 10. The base game is a slot game in which a plurality of symbols are rearranged. The base game is not limited to the slot game, and may be a game that can be executed independently on a game terminal such as the slot machine 10. That is, the base game is a concept game that is opposed to the common game. For example, a normal game and a bonus game are divided into base games.

  The rearrangement of symbols in the slot game is performed on the lower image display panel 141. The slot game may include a normal game, a bonus game, a rescue process, and the like. In the normal game, on the condition that the bet of the game value is a condition, symbols are rearranged on the lower image display panel 141, and a process of giving a normal payout according to the rearranged symbols is executed. The bonus game is executed when symbols are rearranged under a predetermined condition in the normal game.

  “Bonus game” is synonymous with feature game. The bonus game may be any kind of game as long as it is in a play state that is more advantageous than the normal game. In addition, other bonus games may be adopted as long as the play state is advantageous for the player, that is, if the play state is more advantageous than the normal game. For example, the bonus game has various states such as a state in which more game values can be obtained than a normal game, a state in which game values can be acquired with a higher probability than a normal game, and a state in which the number of game values consumed is less than in a normal game. May be realized alone or in combination.

  For example, the bonus game may be a fixed payout, or may be a free game that is executed on condition that a bet with a smaller game value (including 0) than the base game is included. Alternatively, a symbol lottery table having a higher payout rate than the base game may be used. Further, it may be a pick-up bonus that presents a plurality of options to the player in a selectable manner. In the case of a pickup bonus, options may include a fixed payout, a free game, and the like. Further, the pickup bonus option may include a pickup bonus trigger that causes the player to select an option. In addition, it is preferable that the options for the pickup bonus are arranged randomly. Further, it is preferable that the pick-up bonus options are not displayed at the stage before the player's selection. Details of the bonus game of this embodiment will be described later. The rescue process is executed when a rescue start condition is satisfied.

  The “game value” is coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these. The game value in the present invention is not particularly limited, and may be a game medium such as a medal, token, electronic money, ticket or the like. The ticket is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a ticket with a barcode described later. Further, as described above, the “game value” may be an electronic game point corresponding to a game medium.

  A “free game” is a game that can be executed with fewer bets of game value than a normal game. “A game can be executed with fewer bets of game value” includes the case where the bet is “0”. Therefore, the “free game” may be a game that is executed without a game value bet as a condition and pays an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, the “free game” may be a game that is started without presuming the consumption of game value. On the other hand, the “normal game” is a game that is executed on the condition that a game value is bet and pays an amount of game value corresponding to the rearranged symbols. In other words, the “normal game” is a game that is started on the premise that the game value is consumed.

  The “rearrangement” means a state in which symbols are arranged again after the arrangement of symbols is cancelled. “Arrangement” means that the symbol can be visually confirmed with respect to an external player.

  “Normal payout according to rearranged symbols” means a normal payout corresponding to a rearranged winning combination. The “bonus payout according to the rearranged symbols” means a bonus payout corresponding to the rearranged winning combination. The “winning combination” means that a prize is established. Details of the winning combination will be described later.

(Function flow of gaming machine 300: slot machine)
As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine 300 configured as described above has a slot machine 10 and an external control device 621 (center controller 200) connected to the slot machine 10 so as to be able to perform data communication. . The external control device 621 is connected to a plurality of slot machines 10 installed in the hall so that data communication is possible.

  The slot machine 10 has a BET button 601 and a spin button 602, a display 614A (such as the lower image display panel 141 in FIG. 8), and a display 614B (the intermediate image display panel 142 in FIG. 8). It has the game controller 100 which controls. The BET button 601 and the spin button 602 are types of input devices. Further, the slot machine 10 includes a transmission / reception unit 652 that enables data communication with the external control device 621.

  The BET button 601 has a function of accepting a bet amount by a player's operation. The spin button 602 has a function of accepting the start of a game such as a normal game by a player's operation, that is, a start operation.

  The display 614A has a function of displaying still image information such as various symbols, numerical values, and symbols, and moving image information such as effect images. Further, the display 614A has a touch panel 69 as an input device, and has a function of accepting various commands by a pressing operation of the player. The display 614 (A, B) has a symbol display area 150, a video display area 614b, and a common game display area 614c. The symbol display area 150 displays a reel screen including symbols. In the symbol display area 150, a moving image (such as an animation) is also superimposed on a still image (such as a symbol). The video display area 614b displays various types of effect video information executed while the game is in progress as a moving image or a still image. The common game display area 614c is an area for displaying a common game.

  For example, in the video display area 614b, the effect display related to the bonus game as described above is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the symbol display area 150 and the area for displaying option images in the bonus game are set on the same screen of the lower image display panel 141, but the present invention is not limited to this. Further, the common game display area 614c may be formed together with the symbol display area 150 and the video display area 614b, or may appear only when the common game is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the display 614B has a video display area 614b, and has a function of displaying still picture information such as numerical values and symbols and moving picture information such as effect video in the video display area 614b. For example, the display 614B displays an amount, a payout table, and the like in the video display area 614b. In the display area, a moving image is also superimposed on the still image.

  The game controller 100 includes a bet / start check unit 603, a base game execution unit 605, a bonus game start determination unit 606, a bonus game execution unit 607, a random value extraction unit 615, a symbol determination unit 612, It has a random value calculation unit 616, an effect content determination unit 613, a speaker 617, a lamp 618, a winning determination unit 619, and a payout unit 620.

  The normal game execution unit 605 has a function of executing a normal game on condition that the BET button 601 is operated. The bonus game start determination unit 606 determines whether or not to execute the bonus game based on the combination of symbols rearranged in the base game. That is, the bonus game start determination unit 606 determines that the bonus game is won when the feature symbols 503 and the like are rearranged under a predetermined condition, and executes the bonus game from the next unit game. 607 has a function of transferring processing to 607.

Here, the “unit game” is a series of operations from the start of accepting a bet to a state where a prize can be established. For example, the unit game of the normal game is in a state including a bet time for accepting a bet, a game time for rearranging the stopped symbols, and a payout time for payout processing for giving a payout once. The unit game in the normal game is called a unit normal game. In the present embodiment, it is set to about 3 seconds from when the player operates the spin button 602 to start symbol fluctuation display until the symbols are rearranged. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
In other words, the unit game of the free game is a series of operations from the determination of a symbol to be stopped or displayed, or the start of symbol scrolling to a state where a prize can be established. For example, the unit game of the free game is in a state including a game time for rearranging the stopped symbols and a payout time for payout processing for giving a payout once.

  The bonus game execution unit 607 has a function of repeatedly executing a free game with a plurality of games only by operating the spin button 602. Note that a bonus game may have a function of selecting one from a plurality of option images.

  The symbol determination unit 612 uses a random value from the random value extraction unit 615 to determine a symbol to be rearranged, a function to rearrange the determined symbol in the symbol display area 150 of the display 614, It has a function of outputting symbol rearrangement information to the winning determination unit 619 and a function of outputting an effect designation signal to the effect random number calculation unit 616 based on the symbol rearrangement state.

  The winning determination unit 619 is based on the function of determining the presence / absence of winning when the rearrangement information with the symbols in the display state rearranged on the display 614 is obtained, and the winning combination when it is determined that the winning is achieved. The payout unit 620 has a function of calculating a total payout amount and a function of outputting a payout signal based on the payout amount to the payout unit 620. The payout unit 620 has a function of paying out game value to the player in the form of coins, medals, credits, and the like. The payout unit 620 has a function of adding credit data corresponding to the payout credit to credit data stored in an IC card inserted into the PTS terminal 700 described later.

  Furthermore, the game controller 100 has a storage unit 661 that stores various bet amount data. The storage unit 661 is a device that stores data such as a hard disk device or a memory in a rewritable manner.

  Furthermore, the game controller 100 has a common game execution unit 653. The common game execution unit 653 has a function of outputting bet amount information based on the bet amount bet on the base game to the external control device 621 for each unit base game. The common game execution unit 653 has a function for executing a common game in response to a game start command from the external control device 621, and bet amount data for a common game stored in the storage unit 661 and betable on the common game. And a function of accepting a bet input from the BET button 601 for the corresponding bet amount.

  The game controller 100 is connected to the PTS terminal 700. The PTS terminal 700 is a unit in which an LCD, a microphone, a human body detection camera, and the like are integrated, and has a function of rendering a game, for example, by communicating with the game controller 100. In particular, the PTS terminal 700 is provided with a card insertion slot so that an IC card can be inserted. Thereby, the player can use the credit stored in the IC card in the slot machine 10 by inserting the IC card into the card insertion slot.

  Further, when the game controller 100 receives the credit data from the PTS terminal 700, the game controller 100 updates the credit display in the display frame provided at the lower part of the display 614B. Furthermore, the game controller 100 outputs the adjustment credit data to the PTS terminal 700 when the game is adjusted.

  In addition, the PTS terminals 700 included in each of the plurality of slot machines 10 constituting the gaming machine 300 are connected to the management server 800 so as to communicate with each other, and collectively download images and manage IC cards and credits.

(Function flow of gaming machine 300: external control device)
The slot machine 10 configured as described above is connected to an external control device 621 as shown in FIG. The external control device 621 has a function of remotely operating and remotely monitoring processes such as operation statuses of a plurality of slot machines 10 and changes of various game setting values. Furthermore, the external control device 621 determines a common game start condition for each game terminal that is the slot machine 10, and when a determination result that satisfies the common game start condition is obtained at any game terminal, a common game or the like is shared. It has a function of executing a game on a plurality of slot machines 10.

  More specifically, the external control device 621 includes a common game start unit 6213, a game terminal selection unit 6215, and a transmission / reception unit 6217. The common game start determination unit 6213 has a function of determining whether or not a common game start condition is satisfied based on an accumulated value of bet amount information transmitted from the slot machine 10 for each unit base game, and a plurality of slot machines 10. The function of outputting a game start command and the function of displaying a state until the common game start condition is satisfied on the common display device.

  It should be noted that whether or not the common game start condition is satisfied can be determined based on all accumulated values that are increased by repeating the unit base game, in addition to the accumulated value of the bet amount information. For example, the number of times of the base game, the game time of the base game, or the like may be used as the cumulative value.

  Further, the common game start unit 6213 has a function of outputting a game start command to the slot machine 10 in which the cumulative value that increases as the base game repeats satisfies the game execution condition. As a result, the common game start unit 6213 does not give the slot machine 10 whose accumulated value is less than the minimum set value to the qualification to participate in the common game, so that the player is conscious of actively repeating the base game. It is possible to have

  Further, the common game start unit 6213 has a function of monitoring a non-input time during which no start operation is performed and outputting a game start command to the slot machines 10 excluding the slot machines 10 whose non-input time is equal to or longer than the timeout time. Have. Accordingly, the common game start unit 6213 can determine that the player is absent for the slot machine 10 in which the base game has not been executed for the timeout time or longer. Makes it possible to avoid running the game.

  The game terminal selection unit 6215 has a function of selecting a specific slot machine 10 from the plurality of slot machines 10 and outputting a common game start command signal to the slot machine 10. The common game start command signal gives an authority to start a common game for a specific slot machine 10. The transmission / reception unit 6217 has a function of enabling data transmission / reception with the slot machine 10.

(Operation of gaming machine 300)
The operation of the gaming machine 300 configured with the above functional blocks will be described. In the present embodiment, the “game terminal” in the flowchart means the slot machine 10 that executes the slot game, but is not limited thereto.

(Operation of slot machine 10)
The slot machine 10 that is a game terminal executes terminal-side processing. Specifically, first, a base game process (a normal game or the like) is executed. The following series of operations is performed.

(Credit start check)
First, the slot machine 10 checks whether or not the BET button 601 has been pressed by the player after inserting the credit, and then checks whether or not the spin button 602 has been pressed by the player.

(Symbol decision)
Next, when the spin button 602 is pressed by the player, the slot machine 10 extracts a random number for symbol determination, and stops scrolling the symbol row 170 in accordance with each of the plurality of video reels displayed on the display 614A. The symbol to be displayed on the player is determined.

(Symbol display)
Next, the slot machine 10 starts scrolling the symbol column 170 of each video reel, and stops scrolling so that the determined symbols are displayed on the player.

(Winning determination)
Next, when the scroll of the symbol column 170 of each video reel is stopped, the slot machine 10 determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed on the player is related to winning.

(Payout)
Next, when the symbol combination displayed on the player is related to winning, the slot machine 10 gives the player a privilege according to the type of symbol combination.

  For example, when a combination of symbols related to payout of credits (coins) is displayed, the slot machine 10 pays out a number of credits corresponding to the combination of symbols to the player.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a bonus combination is won. When a bonus combination is won, bonus game processing is executed. For example, when a predetermined number or more of feature symbols 503 are rearranged in the symbol display area 150, execution of the free game is confirmed. At this time, a lottery for determining whether or not to execute the bonus game may be performed. On the other hand, if the bonus combination is not won, the normal game is re-executed. Execution state information indicating the start and end of a unit game such as a base game and the bet amount of the unit game is transmitted to the external control device 621 during a period in which the base game including the base game and the bonus game is being executed. As a result, the execution state information of each slot machine 10 is centrally managed in the external control device 621.

(Operation of the external control device 621)
When the slot machine 10 is operating as described above, the external control device 621 executes the following center side processing in synchronization with the slot machine 10.

  First, the external control device 621 receives the execution state information from the slot machine 10 and acquires the execution state of the base game. Thereafter, based on the number of repetitions of the base game, the accumulated bet amount, and the like, it is determined whether or not the common game start condition is satisfied in any of the slot machines 10. When the common game start condition is not satisfied, the acquisition of the base game execution state in each slot machine 10 is continued.

  On the other hand, when the common game start condition is satisfied, a game start command is simultaneously output to the slot machine 10 that satisfies the game execution condition. Thereafter, a specific slot machine 10 is selected from the slot machines 10 that satisfy the game execution condition, and a common game start authority command is output to the specific slot machine 10.

  Next, the external control device 621 waits until receiving a common game start command transmitted from the specific slot machine 10. When the common game start command is received, the winning / losing of the common game is determined as a game result using this reception as a trigger. For example, one of victory, loss, and draw is determined. If it is determined that the game result is not a draw, at least a part of the draw game results is skipped from the series of temporarily stored game results, and the remaining game results are used as game result information. The data is sequentially output to each slot machine 10.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the common game has been won based on the game result with win or loss. When losing, the execution state of the base game in each slot machine 10 is newly acquired. On the other hand, when winning, a payout amount is calculated based on the bet amount bet on the common game in each slot machine 10 and transmitted to each slot machine 10 as payout information.

  The external control device 621 is not limited to the above configuration. For example, in addition to or instead of the above-described configuration, execution state information (payout amount) indicating the bet amount of the unit game transmitted from each slot machine 10 is stored and paid out in response to a request from each slot machine 10 The configuration may be such that the amount is transmitted or reset.

(Overall configuration of game system)
A game system 350 including the gaming machine 300 having the above functions will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the game system 350 includes a plurality of slot machines 10, one or a plurality of signage 760, and an external control device 621 connected to each slot machine 10 and the signage 760 via a communication line 301. And.

  The external control device 621 controls a plurality of slot machines 10. In the present embodiment, the external control device 621 is a so-called hall server installed in a gaming facility having a plurality of slot machines 10. Each slot machine 10 is given a unique identification number, and the external control device 621 determines the origin of data sent from each slot machine 10 based on the identification number. Also, when data is transmitted from the external control device 621 to the slot machine 10, the transmission destination is specified using the identification number.

  The signage 760 is an information display device used mainly for displaying store advertisements (including advertising billboards), hall floor guidance, jackpot status, etc., and is connected to a game system server via a network. The The signage 760 includes two display units (LCD 761 and LCD 762 having a touch panel function).

  Note that the game system 350 may be constructed within one gaming facility capable of playing various games such as a casino, or may be constructed among a plurality of gaming facilities. Further, when the game system 350 is constructed in one game facility, the game system 350 may be constructed for each floor or section of the game facility. The communication line 301 may be wired or wireless, and a dedicated line or an exchange line can be employed.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the game system is roughly divided into a management server block, a customer terminal block, and a staff terminal block. The management server block includes a casino hall server 850, a currency exchange server 860, a casino / hotel staff management server 870, and a download server 880.

  The casino hall server 850 is a server that manages the entire casino hall in which the slot machine 10 is installed. The exchange server 860 is a server that creates exchange rate data based on exchange information and the like. The casino / hotel staff management server 870 is a server that manages a casino hall or a hotel staff related to the casino hall. The download server 880 is a server that, for example, downloads the latest information such as information on games and news, and notifies the player through the PTS terminal 700 of the various slot machines 10.

  The management server block includes a member management server 810, an IC card & money management server 820, a megabucks server 830, and an image server 840.

  The member management server 810 is a server that manages member information of players who play the slot machine 10. The IC card & money management server 820 is a server that manages IC cards used in the slot machine 10. Specifically, the IC card & money management server 820 is a server that stores fractional cash data in association with an identification code, or outputs fractional cash data to the PTS terminal 700. The IC card & money management server 820 also creates and manages denomination data and the like. The megabucks server 830 is a server that manages, for example, megabucks, which is a game in which the total sum of the premiums of a plurality of slot machines 10 installed in a plurality of casino halls is a dividend. The image server 840 is a server that downloads a latest image such as an image or news related to a game and notifies the player through the PTS terminal 700 of the various slot machines 10.

  The customer terminal block has a slot machine 10, a PTS terminal 700, and a payment machine 750. The PTS terminal 700 can be attached to the slot machine 10 and can communicate with the management server 800. The settlement machine 750 is a machine that cashes and stores cash data stored in an IC card owned by the player, and stores coins and banknotes as cash data in the IC card.

  The staff terminal block includes a staff management terminal 900 and a member card ticketing terminal 950. The staff management terminal 900 is a terminal where the staff of the casino hall manages various slot machines 10. In particular, in the case of the present embodiment, the staff of the casino hall manages whether the number of IC cards stocked in the PTS terminal 700 is excessive or insufficient. The membership card issuing terminal 950 is a terminal used when a player playing a game in the casino hall issues a membership card.

(PTS terminal 700)
As shown in FIG. 7, the PTS terminal 700 is incorporated in a PTS system. A PTS terminal 700 attached to the slot machine 10 is communicably connected to the game controller 100 and the bill validator controller 890 of the slot machine 10.

  In communication with the game controller 100, the PTS terminal 700 performs the production of a game by sound or image, the update of credit data, or the like. In addition, the PTS terminal 700 transmits credit data necessary for settlement in communication with the bill validator controller 890.

  The PTS terminal 700 is connected to the management server 800 so as to be communicable. The PTS terminal 700 communicates with the management server 800 between two lines, a general communication line and an additional function communication line.

  The PTS terminal 700 communicates data such as cash data, identification code data, player member information, and the like on a general communication line. On the other hand, the PTS terminal 700 performs communication related to functions newly added in the additional function communication line. In the case of the present embodiment, the PTS terminal 700 includes an exchange function, an IC card function, a biometric authentication function, a camera function, and a function for performing solid identification using radio waves in an additional function communication line. ) Communication with functions.

(Machine configuration of slot machine)
The overall structure of the slot machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the slot machine 10, bills or electronic valuable information corresponding to them are used as game media. In particular, in this embodiment, credit-related data such as cash data stored in an IC card is used.

  The slot machine 10 includes a topper device 2 and a gaming machine body 5 in which the topper device 2 is provided on an upper surface wall. The gaming machine main body 5 includes two image display panels 141 and 142 (displays 614A and 614B in FIG. 3). The top device 3 includes an intermediate image display panel 142, and the top device 3 is provided on the upper surface wall, and includes a device body 4 including a lower image display panel 141.

  The topper device 2 has a function of making the slot machine 10 stand out even from a remote location, and a function of making the game content of the slot machine 10 visible from a remote location.

  The top device 3 has a function of displaying game-related information such as specific contents of a game, a payout amount, a payout table, and rules. The device main body 4 has a function of executing a game.

  The topper device 2 is provided on the upper surface wall of the top device 3 so as to be arranged at the highest position of the slot machine 10. The topper device 2 has a rotation axis that coincides with the vertical direction of the slot machine 10, and is rotatable in the forward direction and the reverse direction within a range of a predetermined angle around the rotation axis. Thereby, the topper device 2 has a front posture in which the display surface (video display unit 2a) of the liquid crystal display device that displays the game content faces the front side, and an inclined posture in which the display surface (video display unit 2a) faces the front side. Switchable. The front posture is a posture employed in a normal state such as when a game is executed or during standby, and allows a person who is far away from the slot machine 10 (such as a player or a playground player) to visually recognize the game contents. It is like that. On the other hand, the inclined posture is a special posture adopted when changing the display of the topper device 2. The inclined posture enables the work of changing the display of the topper device 2 from the front side of the slot machine 10 by positioning the side plate cover 216 (replacement mechanism) disposed at the right end of the topper device 2 on the front side. .

  The top device 3 includes a top box 31 and an intermediate image display panel 142 (liquid crystal display device) that displays a payout amount, a payout table, and the like provided on the front surface of the top box 31.

  The apparatus main body 4 is open at the front and lower surfaces. The screen displayed on the lower image display panel 141 has a symbol display area 150 at the center. The symbol display area 150 is composed of 15 display blocks 28 in 5 columns and 3 rows. The symbols in each column form pseudo reels 151 to 155 (video reel group). The pseudo reels 151 to 155 rotate and move the symbols displayed in the display blocks 28 in the vertical direction (variable display) by displaying the symbols in each column moving downward while changing the overall speed. It is possible to perform a rearrangement that stops after being executed. Details of the display screen of the lower image display panel 141 will be described later.

  In this embodiment, the slot machine 10 is a so-called video slot machine. However, the slot machine 10 according to the present invention substitutes a so-called mechanical reel for some or all of the pseudo reels 151 to 155. May be.

  A touch panel 69 is provided on the front surface of the lower image display panel 141 (liquid crystal display device). The touch panel 69 allows the player to input various instructions by touching and operating the display screen of the lower image display panel 141. An input signal is transmitted from the touch panel 69 to the main CPU 71 (see FIG. 9).

  A control panel 30 is disposed below the lower image display panel 141. As shown in FIG. 8, the control panel 30 includes various buttons. The control panel 30 has a change button 33, a cashout button 32, and a help button 45 arranged on the back side of the player. A 1-BET button 34, a 2-BET button 35, a 3-BET button 36, a 5-BET button 37, and a 10-BET button 38 are arranged near the center. Further, the control panel 30 has a play 1 LINE button 40, a play 5 LINES button 41, a play 10 LINES button 42, a play 30 LINES button 43, and a play 50 LINES button 44 arranged at the center front side. And the control panel 30 is provided with the aspect which has arrange | positioned the spin button 46 to the lower side of the right side area | region. A gambling button 31 is arranged on the left side of the spin button 46. Moreover, although not shown in figure, these buttons 31-38 and 40-46 incorporate LED so that ON / OFF control is possible.

The change button 33 is also an operation button that is used when leaving a seat or when requesting a change of money from a staff member of a game facility.
The cashout button 32 is an operation button used when the credits deposited in the slot machine 10 are settled. The cashout button 32 is a so-called settlement button that adds credit data related to credits acquired in various games to credit data stored in an IC card inserted into the PTS terminal 700.
The help button 45 is a button that is pressed when the operation method of the game is unknown. For example, when the help button 45 is pressed, various types of help information are displayed on the upper image display panel 143, the lower image display panel 141, and the like.

  The BET buttons 34 to 38 are buttons for selecting a magnification (BET magnification) for an active payline. The 1-BET button 34 is a button for playing a game with 1 BET (magnification “1”) for each active payline. The 2-BET button 35 is a button for playing a game with 2 BET for each active payline. The 3-BET button 36 is a button for playing a game with 3 BET for each active payline. The 5-BET button 37 is a button for playing a game with 5 BET for each valid payline. The 10-BET button 38 is a button for playing a game with 10 BET for each active payline.

  The play 1 LINE button 40 is a button that activates one payline when pressed. As a result, the number of activated paylines (valid paylines) becomes “1”. The play 5 LINES button 41 is a button that activates a 5-pay line when pressed. As a result, the number of active paylines becomes “5”. The play 10 LINES button 42 is a button that activates 10 paylines when pressed. As a result, the number of active paylines becomes “10”. The play 30 LINES button 43 is a button that activates 30 paylines when pressed. As a result, the number of active paylines becomes “30”. The play 50 LINES button 44 is a button that activates 50 paylines when pressed. As a result, the number of active paylines becomes “50”.

  When the play 1 LINE button 40 is pressed, only the payline “1” (for example, No. 1 in FIG. 16A) becomes valid. When the play 5 LINES button 41 is pressed, paylines “1” to “5” (for example, No. 1 to No. 5 in FIG. 16A) become valid. When the play 10 LINES button 42 is pressed, paylines “1” to “10” (for example, No. 1 to No. 10 in FIG. 16A) become valid. When the play 30 LINES button 43 is pressed, paylines “1” to “30” (for example, No. 1 to No. 30 in FIG. 16A) become valid. When the play 50 LINES button 44 is pressed, paylines “1” to “50” (for example, No. 1 to No. 50 in FIG. 16A) become valid. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a configuration in which a predetermined number (for example, 50) of paylines is always activated may be used.

  Here, the BET operation is performed as follows, for example. First, the player determines a base value of the number of BETs used for one game by the play line buttons 40 to 44. Then, the player selects a BET rate (a rate at which a payout is obtained: a payout rate) by using the BET buttons 34 to 38. For example, when the play 50 LINES button 44 and the 2-BET button 35 are selected and the game is started, the total BET number of 50 credits × 2 = 100 credits is used in one game, while the payout rate is Doubled. Any of the BET buttons 34 to 38 and the play line buttons 40 to 44 may be operated first.

The spin button 46 is a button used when starting scroll display of the symbol row 170 to which symbols are attached. Further, it is used when a spin is started under the same BET conditions (BET number, BET magnification) as in the previous time.
The gambling button 31 is an operation button used when shifting to a gambling game after the bonus game is finished. Here, the gambling game is a game played using the acquired credits.

  The lower door device 1043 to which the controller 30 is mounted includes a front mask portion 1043c disposed at the upper center position, speaker portions 1043a and 1043b disposed symmetrically about the front mask portion 1043c, a PTS portion 1043d, and a PTS. And a building part 1043e arranged on the right side of the part 1043d. Further, the lower door device 1043 includes a control panel unit 1043f disposed below the PTS unit 1043d and the building unit 1043e, a bill cover unit 1043g disposed on the lower right side of the control panel unit 1043f, and a left side of the building cover unit 1043g. And a lower front cover portion 1043h disposed on the front side. These portions 1043a to 1043h are formed by assembling various members to the lower door base member 1048.

  The front mask portion 1043c has a front mask cover with a top on the front side on the forefront. The speaker units 1043a and 1043b have speaker covers 432a and 432b having a large number of holes on the forefront, and speakers arranged on the rear side of the speaker covers 432a and 432b. The PTS unit 1043d has a PTS cover 434 on the forefront, and a PTS terminal 700 (not shown) is attached instead of the PTS cover 434 as necessary.

  In the PTS terminal 700, various devices having a microphone function, a camera function, a speaker function, a display function, and the like integrally form one unit. Specifically, the PTS terminal 700 includes an LCD, a human body detection camera, a microphone, a bass reflex (bass reflex) speaker, and the like. The human body detection camera can detect the presence or absence of a player by a camera function. The microphone is used for the player to participate in the game by voice or to authenticate the player by voice recognition. The speaker produces a game by voice and outputs a notification sound due to forgetting to remove the IC card. Further, the speaker outputs a notification sound even when authentication of the inserted IC card fails.

  The PTS terminal 700 is provided with an LED and a card insertion slot. The LED is lit in a plurality of colors to notify the remaining number of IC cards accumulated in the card stacker. The card insertion slot has a mechanism for inserting or removing an IC card. The IC card has a display unit. The IC card is completely inside the player during the game, but is discharged so that the display unit is exposed at the time of payment. Thereby, the player can check credit-related data such as updated cash data. Furthermore, the IC card may be held so that the display unit is exposed without completely entering the player even during the game. Thereby, the player can always confirm that the credit is updated during the game.

  When it is detected that there is no player using the human body detection camera at the time of credit settlement, the IC card is drawn inside and stored in a card stacker. Thereby, for example, even if a player who has confirmed on the display unit that there are few remaining credits intentionally leaves the IC card and stands up, the IC card will not remain inserted for a long time.

  Further, as described above, the PTS terminal 700 is provided with the VFD 177. As shown in FIG. 8, there is a game status area in the center of the VFD 177 to display the game status. In the game status area, a bonus status, winning details, acquired credits, and the like are displayed. In addition, credit, total bet number, denomination, line, bet, and WIN meter are displayed.

(Electric configuration of slot machine)
Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a configuration of a circuit included in the slot machine 10 will be described.

  The gaming board 50 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, and a boot ROM 53 that are connected to each other via an internal bus, a card slot 55 that corresponds to the memory card 54, and an IC socket 57 that corresponds to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 56. .

  The memory card 54 is composed of a nonvolatile memory and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a program related to the progress of the game and a program for executing effects by images and sounds. The game program includes a symbol determination program. The symbol determination program is a program for determining symbols to be rearranged in the display block 28.

  The game program includes each symbol in each symbol row 170 and a code No. And the base game symbol table data indicating the base game symbol table indicating the correspondence relationship between the random number and the symbol No. indicating the symbol column determination table. Determination table data, code No. Code No. indicating the decision table Determination table data, activated reel position No. (Effective area), odds data indicating the correspondence relationship between the rearranged symbol type and number, and the payout amount, and the like are included.

  The card slot 55 is configured so that the memory card 54 can be inserted and removed, and is connected to the motherboard via an IDE bus. Therefore, by removing the memory card 54 from the card slot 55, writing another game program in the memory card 54, and inserting the memory card 54 into the card slot 55, the type and content of the game played in the slot machine 10 is changed. be able to.

  The GAL 56 is a kind of PLD (Programmable Logic Device) having an OR fixed type array structure. The GAL 56 includes a plurality of input ports and output ports. When a predetermined input is input to the input port, the corresponding data is output from the output port.

  The IC socket 57 is configured so that the GAL 56 can be attached and detached, and is connected to the motherboard via a PCI bus. The contents of the game played in the slot machine 10 can be changed by replacing the memory card 54 with another program written therein or rewriting the program written in the memory card 54 with another one. .

  The CPU 51, the ROM 52, and the boot ROM 53 that are connected to each other by an internal bus are connected to the motherboard by a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits signals between the motherboard and the gaming board 50 and supplies power from the motherboard to the gaming board 50.

  The ROM 52 stores an authentication program. The boot ROM 53 stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for the CPU 51 to start the preliminary authentication program.

  The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the authentication program. The authentication program and the preliminary authentication program are described in accordance with a procedure (authentication procedure) for authenticating that the target program has not been tampered with.

  The motherboard is configured using a commercially available general-purpose motherboard (printed wiring board on which basic components of a personal computer are mounted), a main CPU 71, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 72, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 73, and a communication interface. 82. Note that the motherboard corresponds to the game controller 100 in the present embodiment.

  The ROM 72 includes a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) executed by the main CPU 71 and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 71, initialization processing of predetermined peripheral devices is performed. In addition, the game program and game system program take-in process stored in the memory card 54 is started via the gaming board 50. In the present embodiment, the ROM 72 may be rewritable or impossible.

  The RAM 73 stores programs such as data used when the main CPU 71 operates and a symbol determination program. For example, when the above-described game program, game system program, and authentication program are loaded, these can be stored. The RAM 73 is provided with a work area for executing the program. For example, an area for storing a counter for managing the number of plays, the number of BETs, the number of payouts, the number of credits, an area for storing symbols (code numbers) determined by lottery, and the like are provided.

  The communication interface 82 is for communicating with an external control device 621 such as a server via the communication line 301. Also, a door PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 90 and a main body PCB 110, which will be described later, are connected to the motherboard by USB (Universal Serial Bus), respectively. A power supply unit 81 is connected to the motherboard. Further, a PTS terminal 700 is connected to the motherboard by USB.

  A bill entry 60 is electrically connected to the PTS terminal 700. The bill entry 60 is for identifying whether or not a bill is appropriate and accepting a regular bill into the cabinet 11. When the bill entry 60 receives a regular bill, the bill entry 60 transmits an input signal based on the amount of the bill to the PTS terminal 700. This input signal includes information such as credit data related to the accepted bill. Then, credits corresponding to bills inserted into the cabinet 11 are added as player-owned credits.

  When power is supplied from the power supply unit 81 to the motherboard, the main CPU 71 of the motherboard is activated, and power is supplied to the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus and the CPU 51 is activated.

  The door PCB 90 and the main body PCB 110 are connected to input devices such as switches and sensors and peripheral devices whose operations are controlled by the main CPU 71.

  A control panel 30 and a cold cathode tube 93 are connected to the door PCB 90.

  The control panel 30 includes a gambling switch 31S, a cash-out switch 32S, a change switch 33S, a 1-BET switch 34S, a 2-BET switch 35S, a 3-BET switch 36S, and a 5-BET switch corresponding to the above-described buttons. 37S, 10-BET switch 38S, play 1 LINE switch 40S, play 5 LINES switch 41S, play 10 LINES switch 42S, play 30 LINES switch 43S, play 50 LINES switch 44S, help switch 45S, and spin switch 46S are provided. Each switch detects that the corresponding button has been pressed by the player, and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71.

  The cold cathode tube 93 functions as a backlight installed on the back side of the rendering mechanism (the lamp 111 and the like) and the lower image display panel 141, and lights up based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

  A lamp 111, a speaker 112, a touch panel 69, a graphic board 130, a key switch 173S, and a data display 174 are connected to the main body PCB 110. The lamp 111 is turned on, blinked, turned off, etc. based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71. The speaker 112 outputs a sound such as BGM based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

  The touch panel 69 detects a position touched by a player's finger or the like on the lower image display panel 141 and outputs a signal corresponding to the detected position to the main CPU 71.

  The graphic board 130 controls display of images performed by the lower image display panel 141, the intermediate image display panel 142, and the upper image display panel 143 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71. The graphic board 130 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) that generates image data, a video RAM that stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. Note that the image data used when generating image data by VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card 54 and stored in the RAM 73.

  The key switch 173S is provided on the keypad 173, and outputs a predetermined signal to the main CPU 71 when the keypad 173 is operated by the player. The data display 174 displays data read by the card reader 172 or data input by the player via the keypad 173 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

(Game flow)
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a game flow related to the slot machine 10. The main game flow in the slot machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the slot machine 10, a normal game, a VEGAS-X feature, and a jackpot feature (jackpot game) can be executed.

  The VEGAS-X feature includes a challenge game, a VEGAS-X free game (free game A), and a jackpot chance free game (free game B). The free game A is a type of free game in which a combination of the number of free games and the payout rate is selected by lottery. Free game B is a free game with a chance to acquire a jackpot game.

  When a predetermined number (for example, three) or more of predetermined feature symbols are stopped and displayed in the normal game, the challenge game is started.

  In the challenge game, one option is selected from a plurality of options based on player operations, and free game A or free game B is determined according to the selection result. If the option related to the free game B cannot be selected (if it fails), the free game A is started. If the option related to the free game B can be selected (if successful), the free game B is started.

  When the number of free games set by lottery is consumed, the free game A ends and the normal game is started. When a predetermined number (for example, 3) or more of predetermined feature symbols are stopped and displayed in the free game A (retrigger), the number of free games is determined by lottery and added.

  The free game B ends when a predetermined number of free games is consumed. At the end of the game, a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to the jackpot game is performed on condition that the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed during the free game B. When the lottery is won, the jackpot game is started. When the lottery is not won, the normal game is started. According to the above configuration, for example, a bonus game can be awarded in the free game B having a plurality of triggers, so that a sense of expectation for the free game B can be further increased.

  In the jackpot game, a bonus payout corresponding to an option selected from a plurality of types of jackpot bonuses and a plurality of types of fixed bonus options is awarded based on the player's operation. The game starts.

  As a plurality of types of jackpot bonuses, the slot machine 10 is provided with a grand jackpot bonus, a major jackpot bonus, and a minor jackpot bonus. Further, as a plurality of types of fixed bonuses, the slot machine 10 is provided with a grand bonus, a major bonus, and a minor bonus.

  When a predetermined number (for example, 6) or more of specific feature symbols are stopped and displayed in the base game, the free game B is started.

The game flow is not limited to the above-described content.
For example, instead of the challenge game, a configuration may be adopted in which free game A or free game B to be executed is determined by lottery.
In addition, for example, a free game C is further provided, and when a predetermined number (for example, two) or more of predetermined feature symbols are stopped and displayed in the base game, the free game C is started, and the predetermined feature symbols in the free game C are started. When a predetermined number (for example, three) or more are stopped and displayed, the free game A may be started.
In addition, for example, when a predetermined number (for example, 6) or more of predetermined symbols are stopped and displayed in the free game B (retrigger), the number of free games may be determined and added by lottery. .

(Image display panel screen configuration)
Next, main screens (screen configurations) used in the base game and free game will be described.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen configuration of the lower image display panel 141 in the base game. The lower image display panel 141 includes a credit meter display unit 1411, a BET meter display unit 1412, a WIN meter display unit 1413, a game state display unit 1414, valid payline number display units 1415L and 1415R, a MENU icon 1416, a volume icon 1417, a denomination Display unit 1418, time display unit 1419, first display column 1421, second display column 1422, third display column 1423, fourth display column 1424, fifth display column 1425, error history display unit 1431, and system message display unit 1432 is comprised.

In the upper part of the lower image display panel 141, an error history display unit 1431, a system message display unit 1432, and a time display unit 1419 are provided in this order from the left side.
At the center of the screen of the lower image display panel 141, an active payline number display portion 1415L, a symbol display area 150, and an effective payline number display portion 1415R are provided in this order from the left side.
In the lower part of the lower image display panel 141, a denomination display unit 1418, a MENU icon 1416, a volume icon 1417, a credit meter display unit 1411, a BET meter display unit 1412, and a WIN meter display unit 1413 are provided in this order from the left side. Yes.
Note that the screen configuration of the lower image display panel 141 in the normal game is not limited to the above-described content, and the position, size, and range of each component can be changed as appropriate.

The credit meter display unit 1411 is an area in which the total number of credits (the number of remaining credits) can be displayed. The initial value is set to “0”. The numerical value is increased or decreased at the following timing. For example, a win credit (number of payouts) is calculated based on a winning combination (take win winning the game), and the total number of win credits of the acquired win credit is added. Further, for example, the following total BET number is subtracted at the start of the game.
The credit meter display unit 1411 is an area where the total credit amount (remaining credit amount) can be displayed. The total credit amount is calculated by the total number of credits x denomination.

The BET meter display unit 1412 is an area where the total BET number of the game or the final game can be displayed. The total number of BETs is the number of BETs (for example, “1”, “5”, “10”, “30”, or “50”) × BET magnification (for example, “1”, “2”, “3”, “ 5 "or" 10 "). The value is recalculated every time the game is started.
The BET meter display unit 1412 is an area where the total BET amount of the game or the final game can be displayed. The total BET amount is calculated by (total BET number × denomie).

The WIN meter display unit 1413 is an area where the total number of winning credits of the winning credits can be displayed. The initial value is “0”.
The WIN meter display unit 1413 is an area where the total win credit amount can be displayed. The total amount of win credits is calculated by the total number of win credits x denomination.

  The game state display unit 1414 is an area where the BET information of the game or the final game and the current game state can be displayed. The valid payline number display units 1415L and 1415R are areas in which the number of valid paylines (valid payline number) can be displayed.

The MENU icon 1416 is an icon that can be touched. When the touch operation is performed, the first page of the help screen is displayed. It should be noted that when the symbol display 1421 to 1425 is rotating, it is displayed dark when it is invalid, and the touch operation is disabled.
Although illustration is omitted, the help screen is displayed at the center of the lower image display panel 141. Below the help screen, there is an EXIT touch icon for deleting the help screen and returning to the normal game screen, a PREV touch icon for returning the help screen page, and a NEXT touch for moving the help screen page forward by one page. An icon, a denomination display portion similar to that described later, a time display portion similar to that described later, and the like are displayed.

  The volume icon 1417 is an icon that can be touched, and when the touch is operated, the game volume is switched. The volume icon 1417 is used when adjusting the volume of sound or the like output from the slot machine 10. Each time a touch operation is performed, the game volume is switched to small (30%), medium (70%), large (100%), small, and medium. By default, the volume is set to a low volume. In addition, after the slot machine 10 is activated and when the audit (setting screen) is hidden, the sound volume is reset to the default.

The denomination display unit 1418 is an area where the current denomination set by the audit can be displayed.
The time display unit 1419 is an area where the current time can be displayed.

In the symbol display area 150, a first display column 1421, a second display column 1422, a third display column 1423, a fourth display column 1424, and a fifth display column 1425 are provided in this order from the left side.
In the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425, the display blocks 28 are provided in the first, second, and third stages. The display block 28 is configured to be able to display symbols in each symbol column 170.

The error history display unit 1431 is an area where an error history can be displayed. If there are a plurality of errors, they are switched and displayed.
The system message display unit 1432 is an area in which payment, ticket history, communication information, and the like can be displayed.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen configuration of the lower image display panel 141 in the free game. About the same structure as FIG. 11, the description is abbreviate | omitted suitably using the same code | symbol.

The lower image display panel 141 includes a credit meter display unit 1411, a BET meter display unit 1412, a WIN meter display unit 1413, a game state display unit 1414, valid payline number display units 1415L and 1415R, a MENU icon 1416, a volume icon 1417, a denomination A display unit 1418, a first display column 1421, a second display column 1422, a third display column 1423, a fourth display column 1424, a fifth display column 1425, a game type display unit 1433, and a game number display unit 1434 are configured. Is done.
A time display unit 1419, an error history display unit 1431, a system message display unit 1432, and the like may be provided.

In the credit meter display unit 1411, the total credit number (remaining credit number) is updated at the end of the free game. The BET meter display unit 1412 displays the total number of BETs at the start of the free game during the free game. In the WIN meter display unit 1413, the total number of winning credits is accumulated and displayed during the free game.
The game type display unit 1433 is an area where the game type can be displayed. During the free game, a message indicating that the free game is being played (such as “FREE GAME”) is displayed.
The game number display unit 1434 is an area in which the total number of games indicating the number of games that can be enjoyed free games and the current number of games can be displayed. The “X” portion of “X of Y” enlarges the pseudo reels 151 to 155 at the same time (substantially at the same time) as the rotation (scroll display) starts, and notifies the player that the game is progressing one by one. Before the start of the free game, “0” is displayed for “X”, the pseudo reels 151 to 155 start rotating, the count is incremented by “+1”, and the number is enlarged and displayed simultaneously with the voice.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen configuration of the intermediate image display panel 142 in the base game. Note that the screen configuration of the intermediate image display panel 142 in the base game is not limited to the content shown in FIG. 13, and the position, size, and range of each component can be changed as appropriate.

  The intermediate image display panel 142 includes a machine title display portion 1441, pay table display portions 1442L and 1442R, a grand jackpot bonus amount display portion 1443, a major jackpot bonus amount display portion 1444, a minor jackpot bonus amount display portion 1445, a grand bonus. An amount display unit 1446, a major bonus amount display unit 1447, a minor bonus amount display unit 1448, a pay table related display unit 1449, and a copyright display unit 1450 are configured.

The machine title display portion 1441 is an area where the title of the slot machine 10 can be displayed.
The pay table display parts 1442L and 1442R are areas in which the value of the pay table of each symbol can be displayed. The pay table display units 1442L and 1442R change the digit (value) according to the BET operation (dynamic pay table).

  The grand jackpot bonus amount display portion 1443 is an area in which the grand jackpot bonus amount can be displayed. The major jackpot bonus amount display portion 1444 is an area where the major jackpot bonus amount can be displayed. The minor jackpot bonus amount display portion 1445 is an area in which the minor jackpot bonus amount can be displayed.

  The grand bonus amount display portion 1446 is an area where the grand bonus amount can be displayed. The major bonus amount display portion 1447 is an area where the major bonus amount can be displayed. The minor bonus amount display portion 1448 is an area where the minor bonus amount can be displayed.

The pay table related display unit 1449 is an area in which words used when the dynamic pay table is used can be displayed.
The copyright display unit 1450 is an area where the copyright can be displayed.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen configuration of the intermediate image display panel 142 in the free game. About the same structure as FIG. 13, the description is abbreviate | omitted suitably using the same code | symbol. Note that the screen configuration of the intermediate image display panel 142 in the free game is not limited to the content shown in FIG. 14, and the position, size, and range of each component can be changed as appropriate.

  The intermediate image display panel 142 includes a grand jackpot bonus amount display portion 1443, a major jackpot bonus amount display portion 1444, a minor jackpot bonus amount display portion 1445, a grand bonus amount display portion 1446, a major bonus amount display portion 1447, a minor bonus. A forehead display unit 1448, a first chip display unit 1451, a second chip display unit 1452, and a third chip display unit 1453 are configured.

  The first chip display unit 1451 stores and displays a first chip image corresponding to the first chip symbol stopped and displayed in the symbol display area 150 in the free game (for example, a symbol image corresponding to a symbol “WHITE” described later). This is a possible area. Second chip display unit 1452 accumulates and displays a second chip image (for example, a symbol image corresponding to a symbol “RED” described later) corresponding to the second chip symbol stopped and displayed in symbol display area 150 in the free game. This is a possible area. Third chip display unit 1453 accumulates and displays a third chip image (for example, a symbol image corresponding to a symbol “BLUE” described later) corresponding to a third chip symbol stopped and displayed in symbol display area 150 in the free game. This is a possible area.

  Note that the screen configuration of the intermediate image display panel 142 in the free game is not limited to the above-described content. For example, in addition to or instead of the configuration of accumulating and displaying chips in the first chip display unit 1451, the second chip display unit 1452, and the third chip display unit 1453, the cumulative number of chips is displayed (for example, the symbol “WHITE” (Display of (picture) × 3 (numerals)) may be adopted.

(Valid payline)
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the reel position. The reel position is data that can identify the position of the display block 28 in the symbol display area 150. For example, the reel position of the second display block 28 in the leftmost first display row 1421 is defined as “R1, 1”.

FIG. 16A is a diagram illustrating an example of data (position data) that can identify an active payline. FIG. 16B is a diagram showing an image of an active payline.
For example, an active payline No. 1 (first record shown in FIG. 16A), the display block 28 with reel positions “R1,1”, “R2,1”, “R3,1”, “R4,1”, and “R5,1” , An active payline as shown by “LINE1” in FIG. 16B is configured.

  In the slot machine 10, for example, when the number of active paylines “50” is designated by the BET operation, the active payline No. 1 to valid payline No. 1 50 active paylines are used. In this case, the active payline No. It is determined whether or not a winning is established sequentially from one active payline.

(Symbol column)
An example of the symbol string 170 is shown in FIGS. In the slot machine 10, a symbol row 170 is provided for each of the base game, the free game A, and the free game B. 17A and 17B, FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B, FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B, and FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B show an example of a symbol string 170 used in the normal game. FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B show an example of the symbol string 170 used in the free game A. 22 and 23 show an example of the symbol string 170 used in the free game B. Note that, for the free game A and the free game B, the symbol row 170 common to the setting levels is shown. However, a plurality of symbol rows 170 may be provided for the free game A, and a plurality of symbol rows 170 may be provided for the free game B. A pattern may be provided.

Note that Reel 1 to 5 in FIGS. 17A to 23 correspond to the pseudo reels 151 to 155, and symbol columns 170 a to 170 e that vary in each of the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425 are shown.
In the present embodiment, symbols in FIG. 17A and FIG. 22 are appropriately denoted, and symbols other than these are appropriately omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 17A to 21B, the symbol columns 170a to 170e are configured to include one or more symbols (symbols 501). There are three types of symbols: a normal symbol 502, a feature symbol 503, and a wild symbol 504.
The normal symbol 502 is a payable symbol.
The feature symbol 503 is a symbol that can be paid out and can trigger execution of a free game.
The wild symbol 504 is a symbol that can be paid out, and can replace the normal symbol 502, but cannot replace the feature symbol 503. When a wild symbol 504 is included in a combination of symbols that are stopped and rearranged, the wild symbol 504 is treated as a substitute for a plurality of types of symbols so as to be an advantageous combination.

Each of the normal symbol 502, the feature symbol 503, and the wild symbol 504 can employ one or more types of symbols.
In the present embodiment, the normal symbols 502 include “RED SEVEN”, “ROULETTE”, “CARD”, “DICE”, “BALL”, “ACE”, “KING”, “QUEEN”, “JACK”, and “JACK”. Ten types of “TEN” symbols are provided. There are two types of feature symbols 503, “FEATURE_A” and “FEATURE_B”. One type of “WILD” is provided as the wild symbol 504.

  For example, when the feature symbols “FEATURE_B” shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B are viewed, the feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are continuously arranged more than the maximum number that can be stopped (three in this example). According to this arrangement, the feature symbol “FEATURE_B” may be stopped and displayed on all the display blocks 28 in the first display row 1421. The same applies to the symbol column 170b to the symbol column 170e.

  21A and 21B is used in the free game A, for example, the free game B is not triggered from the free game A, so the symbol symbol 170 is provided with a feature symbol “FEATURE_B”. Not.

As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the symbol columns 170a to 170e are configured to include one or a plurality of symbols. There are two types of symbols, a chip symbol 510 and a challenge chip symbol 511.
The chip symbol 510 is a symbol that can be paid out.
The challenge chip symbol 511 is a symbol that can be paid out, and a symbol that can trigger the execution of the jackpot game.

Each of the chip symbol 510 and the challenge chip symbol 511 can employ one or more kinds of symbols.
In this embodiment, two types of symbols “BLUE” and “RED” are provided as the chip symbol 510. One type of “WHITE” is provided as the challenge chip symbol 511. Note that “BLANK” indicates a blank (blank) other than the chip symbol 510 and the challenge chip symbol 511, but can also be regarded as a colorless and transparent symbol.

The symbol column 170 is not limited to the contents shown in FIGS.
For example, FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 show the configuration in which one challenge chip symbol 511 is provided on the intermediate reel (“Reel3”), but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, one or a plurality of challenge chip symbols 511 may be provided on an intermediate reel (“Reel 2”, “Reel 3”, or “Reel 4”). Alternatively, for example, one or a plurality of reels (“Reel1”) that is initially stopped and displayed may be provided. Further, for example, one or a plurality of reels that are stopped and displayed last (“Reel 5”) may be provided.

(Slot machine settings)
FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of a denomination setting range. In this slot machine 10, basically, selection of 1 cent or 2 cents (currency in the local country) is allowed as a currency unit of 1 BET. The denomination setting range is not limited to 1 cent and 2 cents, and an appropriate lower limit value and upper limit value setting range can be adopted.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a correspondence relationship between play line buttons and the number of active paylines. The number of valid paylines is not limited to the values shown in FIG.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating a correspondence relationship between the setting and the BET magnification. In the slot machine 10, two types of settings (config_1 or config_2) are possible. For example, when config_2 is set, the player can select a BET magnification (1, 2, 3, 5, 10) with the BET button.
Note that the types of settings are not limited to two, and may be one less, or more than three. Also, the BET magnification is not limited to the values shown in FIG.

(Winning combination)
When the spin button 46 is pressed and the game is started, the symbol row 170 (pseudo reel) starts scrolling display. When a predetermined time elapses after the scroll display is started, the scroll display stops (rearrangement). Note that the lottery of symbols to be rearranged in the base game is performed when the spin button 46 is pressed. The lottery of symbols to be rearranged in the free game is performed immediately before the scroll display of the symbol row 170 is started.
In the present embodiment, when the spin button 46 is pressed, an active payline is determined based on the pressed playline buttons 40 to 44.

  In the slot machine 10, a win determination relating to each active payline, a win determination relating to a shift to a free game, a win determination relating to a predetermined symbol, and a win determination relating to a shift to a jackpot game, in other words, a winning combination It is determined whether or not.

  A winning combination means establishing a prize. The winning combination is a combination in which the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the active payline is in an advantageous state for the player, and the combination in which the combination of symbols stopped and displayed in a predetermined display block is in an advantageous state for the player and display. A combination or the like in which a predesignated symbol or combination stopped and displayed in a block is advantageous to the player. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, when a predetermined number or more of the same type of symbols are continuously rearranged on the active payline, a winning combination is established.

  The advantageous state includes a state in which the number of payouts according to the winning combination is added to the credit, a state in which a bonus game (free game, jackpot game, etc.) is started, or the like.

  The winning combination includes a winning combination that generates a bonus win, a winning combination that generates a payout win, and the like.

Bonus wins are generated by feature symbols 503 that directly or indirectly trigger the execution of the free game. When a bonus win related to the feature symbol 503 occurs, a payout according to the number of feature symbols 503 related to the trigger rearranged in the symbol display area 150 may be awarded.
Bonus wins can also be generated by a challenge chip symbol 511 that can trigger the execution of a jackpot game. When a bonus win related to the challenge chip symbol 511 occurs, a payout determined by lottery is also awarded.

  The payout win is generated by the normal symbol 502, the feature symbol 503, the wild symbol 504, and the chip symbol 510.

FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 are diagrams showing an example of a payout table (payout table) representing the relationship between the winning combination and the payout.
In the payout table shown in FIG. 27, a rule for calculating the number of payouts to be given when a predetermined number or more of the same type of symbols are continuously displayed from the leftmost first display column 1421 on the active payline. A value (base value) is defined according to the type of the symbol. In the present embodiment, the number of payouts of the winning combination of the active payline is calculated by the prescribed value × BET rate.
For example, when the 10-BET button 38 is selected and the symbol “TEN” is stopped and displayed in the first display column 1421 to the third display column 1423 on the active payline, that is, three symbols “TEN” continue. When the stop display is made on the active payline, “50 (= 5 × 10)” is determined as the number of payouts.
Here, when looking at one type of symbol, the number of payouts is defined to increase as the number of consecutive symbols increases.

  In the payout table shown in FIG. 28, a specified value (base value) for calculating a payout (bonus-in payout: the number of payouts) to be given when the free game start condition is satisfied (a prize is established) is specified. ing. In the present embodiment, the payout number of the winning combination of the bonus game is calculated by the specified value × the total number of BETs. According to the above configuration, for example, the player can increase the total number of BETs so as to increase the payout, and the player can be encouraged to participate. You can expect to move to games.

  In the present embodiment, a configuration in which the prescribed value × the total number of BETs is used as the bonus-in payout is adopted, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, it may be a predetermined number of payouts (one fixed value), or the total number of BETs × number of effective feature symbols 503, specified value × BET magnification, BET magnification × number of effective feature symbols 503 There may be.

Here, the feature symbols 503 (“FEATURE_A” and “FEATURE_B”) are so-called scatter symbols, and the trigger condition and the re-trigger condition can be established only by the rearranged number regardless of the active payline.
More specifically, when at least three feature symbols “FEATURE_A” are stopped and displayed in any one of the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425, the start condition of the free game A is satisfied ( Free games are triggered or retriggered). When at least six feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are stopped and displayed in any one of the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425, the start condition of the free game B is satisfied (the free game is triggered). )

(Free game)
Next, the free game will be described. The free game is executed when a bonus win due to the feature symbol 503 occurs. When a free game occurs, the occurrence of the free game is notified, and an effect such as “Giriri ...” is performed.
In the free game, a symbol array 170 for free game (FIGS. 21A and 21B, or FIG. 22 or FIG. 23) is used, and scroll display and stop of the symbol array 170 are automatically executed. When a winning combination occurs, a payout is made according to the type and number of symbols.

  For example, during a free game, a configuration in which background music (BGM) and a background image change each time the acquired credits increase can be employed. For example, the BGM and the background image may be changed at a plurality of divisions (five steps). At this time, the division (stage) is provided according to how many times the total BET number of credits has been acquired (the number of acquired credits).

In this embodiment, two types of free games A and B are provided as free games.
When three or more feature symbols “FEATURE_A” are stopped and displayed during a normal game, a five-choice selection game (mini game) is triggered, and free game A or free game B is selected by the player operation in the selected game and started. Is done.
Further, when six or more feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are stopped and displayed during the normal game, the free game B is directly triggered and started.
In addition, when 3 or more feature symbols “FEATURE_A” and 6 or more feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are stopped and displayed at the same time during the normal game, in the order shown in FIG. 29, more specifically, in the selected game After the selected free game (free game A or free game B) is executed, the free game B is executed.

(Selected game)
In the selected game, five options (icons such as silhouettes and boxes) are displayed on the lower image display panel 141. When the player selects one, either free game A or free game B associated with the option is displayed. The number of free games A and free games B associated with the five choices is determined by lottery.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a lottery table for determining the number of free games. In the lottery table for determining the number of free games, information on the contents of choices (the number of icons that can identify free games) and weights are defined.

For example, an option group (ID “0”) with four options associated with the free game A and one option associated with the free game B is determined with a probability of “8524771/9118872”.
The lottery table for determining the number of free games is not limited to the content shown in FIG. For example, both or one of an option group in which only the free game A is selected and an option group in which only the free game B is selected may be provided.

  According to the above configuration, even when a predetermined number or more of the feature symbols “FEATURE_A” are rearranged in the symbol display area 150, the free game B is executed when a predetermined free game is associated with the option by the selection operation. Therefore, the situation where the transition to the free game B becomes monotonous can be further avoided.

(Free game A)
In the free game A, before the start of the free game A, a band arrangement (FIGS. 21A and 21B) dedicated to the free game A is set, and the payout rate and the number of free games are determined by lottery.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of a lottery table for determining the payout rate. In the lottery table for determining the payout rate, information on the payout rate and the weighting according to the set level is defined.
For example, when the set level is “V01”, the payout rate “2” (ID “0”) is determined with the probability of “332/1000”.

Note that the lottery table for determining the payout rate is not limited to the contents shown in FIG.
For example, a payout rate may be provided according to the total number of BETs in addition to or instead of the set level. For example, the lottery table for determining the payout rate is configured such that the probability that a higher payout rate is determined increases as the total number of BETs increases.
Further, for example, in addition to or instead of the set level, a payout rate may be provided according to the BET rate. For example, the lottery table for determining the payout rate is configured so that the probability that a higher payout rate is determined increases as the BET rate increases.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of a lottery table for determining the number of free games. In the lottery table for determining the number of free games, information on the number of free games to be added and weighting is defined.
For example, the number of free games “10” (ID “0”) is determined with a probability of “700/1000”.

If three or more feature symbols “FEATURE_A” appear in the free game A, the selected game is not executed and the free game A is retriggered.
The number of free games executed by retrigger is drawn in the same manner as at the time of triggering, but the payout rate at the time of trigger is used as it is.
In the present embodiment, the number of retrigger occurrences is not limited, but is not limited to this, and a limit may be provided. For example, the limit value may be increased corresponding to the number of valid paylines as the number of valid paylines increases.

Note that the lottery table for determining the number of free games is not limited to the content shown in FIG.
For example, in addition to or instead of the set level, the number of free games may be provided according to the total number of BETs. For example, the lottery table for determining the number of free games is configured so that the probability that a larger number of free games is determined increases as the total number of BETs increases.
Further, for example, in addition to or instead of the set level, the number of free games may be provided according to the BET magnification. For example, the lottery table for determining the number of free games is configured so that the probability that a larger number of free games is determined increases as the BET magnification increases.

(Free game B)
If it is determined that six or more feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are to be stopped and displayed during the normal game, the presence / absence of a definite effect is determined by lottery based on FIGS. 33 and 34.

  33 and 34 are diagrams showing an example of a lottery table for determining a definite effect. Weight information is defined in the lottery table.

  In the present embodiment, when it is determined that 6 or more and less than 9 feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are to be stopped, the lottery table shown in FIG. 33 is used, and 9 or more feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are stopped and displayed. When it is determined that the lottery will be performed, the lottery table shown in FIG. 34 is used.

For example, if it is determined that six feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are to be stopped and displayed, the free game B is started with no probability of “112/114” and a probability of “2/114” The finalized effect is performed and the free game B is started.
At the time of starting the free game B (before starting in a broader sense), a band arrangement dedicated to the free game B (FIG. 22 or FIG. 23) and the number of free games are set.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of a lottery table for determining reel bands. In the reel band determination lottery table, information on the reel type and the weight according to the set level is defined.
For example, when the setting level is “V01”, the reel type “NORMAL” (ID “0”: symbol string shown in FIG. 22) is determined with the probability (first probability) of “950/1000”, and “50/1000 The reel type “HIGH” (ID “1”: symbol string shown in FIG. 23) is determined with a probability of “1000” (second probability lower than the first probability).

  Note that the reel band determination lottery table is not limited to the content shown in FIG.

  For example, in addition to or instead of the set level, a reel type may be provided according to the total number of BETs. For example, the reel band determination lottery table is configured to increase the probability that the reel type “HIGH” is determined when the total number of BETs is a certain number or more.

  Further, for example, the reel type may be provided according to the BET magnification in addition to or instead of the set level. For example, the reel band determination lottery table is configured to increase the probability that the reel type “HIGH” is determined when the BET magnification is a certain value or more.

  Further, based on the fact that the feature symbol “FEATURE_B” is rearranged in the symbol display area 150 by a predetermined number (for example, six) or more and less than a specific number (for example, nine), the reel type “NORMAL” (for free games) First symbol group) with a first probability (for example, 80%), and feature symbol “FEATURE_B” is rearranged in symbol display area 150 by a specific number (for example, nine) or more. The free game B may be executed by selecting the reel type “HIGH” (a second symbol group more advantageous than the first symbol group) with a second probability (for example, 90%). According to the above configuration, for example, every time the feature symbol “FEATURE_B” is rearranged in the symbol display area 150, the sense of expectation for the transition to the free game B in which the video reel group of the reel type “HIGH” is used is further increased. Can be raised.

  FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating an example of a regulation table for determining the number of free games. The prescribed table for determining the number of free games defines a predetermined number of free games (in this example, “8”).

  Here, during the free game B, three types of chip symbols (“WHITE”, “RED”, “BLUE”) are arranged on the video reel and are displayed on the first screen (for example, the lower image) when stopped. Chip symbols on display panel 141) are stored on a second screen (eg, intermediate image display panel 142).

FIG. 37 shows an example of the symbol correspondence between the base game and the free game B. The feature symbol “FEATURE_B” in the base game is associated with the symbol “BLUE” in the free game B.
For example, when the free game B is triggered directly from the base game, the feature symbol “FEATURE_B” displayed on the first screen in the base game is also stored on the second screen as the symbol “BLUE”. In other words, payout according to the number of feature symbols “FEATURE_B” stopped and displayed in the base game is performed.

  Note that the first screen and the second screen may be displayed on the same display device or may be displayed on different display devices. Further, the first screen and the second screen may be displayed on the entire surface of the display device, or may be displayed in a partial region of the display device.

(Accounting in Free Game B)
At the end of the free game B (after the end), an accounting screen is displayed on a display device (for example, the lower image display panel 141), and earned credits are calculated from the amount of accumulated chip symbols. In the present embodiment, since three types of chip symbols (“WHITE”, “RED”, “BLUE”) can be stored, earned credits are calculated in the order shown in FIG.

  FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table defining the order of accounting. In the present embodiment, the symbol “BLUE” from which “first fixed payout × acquired number” is paid out, the symbol “RED” from which “second fixed payout × acquired number of sheets larger than the first fixed payout” is paid out, and gained Acquired credits are calculated in the order of the symbol “WHITE” in which “third fixed payout determined by lottery + acquired jackpot payout” is paid out for each number.

Here, the accounting process of the symbol “WHITE” will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an example of the accounting process for the symbol “WHITE”.
In the accounting process for the symbol “WHITE”, the third fixed payout is drawn, and the third fixed payout is determined (S1001). Subsequently, a transition lottery to the jackpot game is performed, and when the transition to the jackpot game is won, a jackpot payout is determined (S1002). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not processing for the number of acquired symbols “WHITE” has been performed (S1003). If it is determined that the process for the number of acquired sheets has been performed, the accounting process for the symbol “WHITE” is terminated, and the next process is executed (S1004). If it is determined that the number of acquired sheets has not been processed, the process proceeds to S1001.
As described above, in the accounting process for the symbol “WHITE”, the third fixed payout lottery and the lottery for shifting to the jackpot game are performed for each acquired number, and the credits to be paid out are calculated.

  Next, the calculation method of the first payout, the second payout, and the third payout will be described more specifically.

  The first payout and the second payout are multiplied by the total number of BETs (Total Credits Bet) based on the prescribed value shown in FIG. FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of a fixed payout prescribed value table defining prescribed values for fixed payouts. For example, in the accounting process for the symbol “RED”, if the total number of BETs at the time of triggering the free game is “50” and the number of acquired coins is “1”, the specified value “2” is set, and the second The fixed payout is “100” (= specified value “2” × total BET number “50” × acquired number “1”).

The third payout is multiplied by the total number of BETs based on the specified value shown in FIG. FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an example of a lottery table for determining a prescribed value related to the symbol “WHITE”. In the lottery table, information on a specified value and a weight is specified. For example, the specified value “4” is determined with a probability of “290/1000”.
If the total BET number at the time of triggering the free game is “50” and the specified value “4” is determined, the third fixed payout is “200” (= “4” × total BET number “50”. )

  According to the above configuration, for example, the player can increase the number of BETs so that the number of symbols used in the free game increases, and the player's involvement can be encouraged. Can be increased.

  Next, the transition lottery to the jackpot game will be described more specifically.

  The transition lottery to the jackpot game is performed based on the lottery table shown in FIG. FIG. 42 is a diagram showing an example of a lottery table for determining the transition to the jackpot game. In the lottery table, weighting information is defined for each total BET number. For example, when the total number of BETs is “50”, it is determined not to shift to the jackpot game with a probability of “18062500/20000000” and is determined to shift to the jackpot game with a probability of “1937500/20000000”.

  According to the above configuration, for example, the player can increase the total number of BETs so that the probability of shifting to the jackpot game is increased in the shifting lottery to the jackpot game, and the player's involvement can be encouraged. As a result, interest in free games can be increased.

(Jackpot game)
A jackpot game will be described. In the jackpot game of the slot machine 10, it is determined which of a fixed payout (payout of a predetermined credit) and a progressive payout (payout of accumulated credit) is to be awarded. Note that the jackpot game is a bonus capable of acquiring the accumulated number of payouts (or credits), and is appropriately referred to as progressive.

  As shown in FIG. 43, the progressive type includes a type in which credits are accumulated in the slot machine 10 (STAND ALONE format) and a type in which credits are accumulated in a predetermined group to which the slot machine belongs (LINK format). And are provided.

  A type that does not use progressive service (NONE) may be provided. In this case, the progressive function can be set (ON, OFF) using the audit. When the progressive function is ON, either the STAND ALONE format or the LINK format can be selected.

  The slot machine 10 is provided with a plurality of progressive levels (progressive levels) that indicate the amount of credit (progressive payout) that can be obtained. In this example, as shown in FIG. 43, three levels of progressive levels (Progressive 1 to Progressive 3) are provided.

  In the slot machine 10, as shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, a combination of various allowable settings is defined.

  In the table shown in FIG. 44, combinations of denominations and progressive base setting values are defined. For example, when the denomination “2c” is set, any one of “SC02”, “SC03”, “SC04”, “SC05”, and “SC06” can be set as the base setting value.

  In the table shown in FIG. 45, combinations of progressive types and progressive base setting values are defined. For example, when the type “type_1” is set, a base setting value other than “SC08” can be set.

  In the slot machine 10, in the jackpot game, depending on the result of the jackpot game shown in FIG. 46, a jackpot payout (payout based on progressive level), or a fixed payout (“Fixed1”, “Fixed2”, and “ A dividend based on the fixed dividend level of “Fixed 3”). FIG. 46 is a diagram illustrating an example of a result of the jackpot game (a type of profit that can be acquired).

  FIG. 47 is a diagram showing an example of a lottery table for determining a payout in a jackpot game. The lottery table defines weighting information corresponding to the progressive level, the fixed payout level, and the progressive base setting value.

  For example, when the base setting value is “SC01”, the progressive level “Progressive1” is determined with the probability of “8900/10000000”. When the progressive level “Progressive1” is determined, a jackpot payout corresponding to the progressive level “Progressive1” is acquired from the external control device 621 and paid out.

  For example, when the base setting value is “SC01”, the fixed payout level “Fixed1” is determined with a probability of “400000/10000000”. When the fixed payout level “Fixed1” is determined, the fixed payout is determined based on the fixed payout table shown in FIG. 48 and paid out. In this example, since the base set value is “SC01” and the fixed payout level is “Fixed1”, the fixed payout “3000” is determined.

Note that the fixed payout table is not limited to the contents shown in FIG.
For example, the fixed payout is fixed regardless of the BET number (total BET number), but the fixed payout may be provided so that the fixed payout increases as the BET number increases.
For example, the same value is adopted regardless of the base set value, but a fixed payout may be provided so that the fixed payout increases as the base set value increases.

  In addition, various tables (examples of progressive setting table) are configured so that the credits that can be earned are different depending on the progressive level and the progressive base setting value, such as the accumulation degree, the base credit, and the maximum value. (FIGS. 49 and 50).

(Normal game execution process)
Next, the operation of the slot machine 10 will be described. The normal game execution process in FIG. 51 shows an example of a process executed in the normal game by the main CPU 71 of the slot machine 10. In the slot machine 10, a game program or the like is read and an initialization process or the like is performed.

  First, the main CPU 71 executes a credit request process (S10). The main CPU 71 determines whether or not a credit is inserted by a ticket on which a bill or the number of credits is printed. When the main CPU 71 detects the insertion, the main CPU 71 adds the credit number corresponding to the insertion number to the credit number counter. Further, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value of the credit number counter is “0”. If the main CPU 71 determines that it is not “0”, it controls to accept the operation (BET operation) of the BET buttons 34 to 38 and the playline buttons 40 to 44 in accordance with the value of the credit counter, and the process proceeds to S11 Move.

In S11, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a BET operation has been performed. In this process, the main CPU 71 outputs an input signal output from the BET switches 34S to 38S when the BET buttons 34 to 38 are operated, and is output from the credit switches 40S to 44S when the play line buttons 40 to 44 are operated. An input signal is received, and the presence or absence of a BET operation is determined based on the received input signal.
If the main CPU 71 determines that the BET operation has not been performed, the process returns to S10. If the main CPU 71 determines that the BET operation has been performed, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S12.

  In S12, in response to the BET operation, the main CPU 71 updates the value stored in the BET number storage area provided in the RAM 73 (adds the value of the BET number counter and subtracts the value of the credit number counter), The operation (start operation) of the spin button 46 is controlled to be accepted, and the process proceeds to S13.

  In S13, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the spin button 46 (start button) is pressed (ON). In this process, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not an input signal output from the spin switch 46S when the spin button 46 is pressed is received. If the main CPU 71 determines that the spin button 46 has not been pressed, the process returns to S10. When the spin button 46 is not pressed (for example, when an instruction to end the play is input without pressing the spin button 46), the main CPU 71 cancels the addition process and the subtraction process in S12. . On the other hand, if it is determined in S13 that the spin button 46 has been pressed, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to S14.

  In S14, the main CPU 71 executes jackpot related processing. Although details will be described later, in the jackpot-related processing, the main CPU 71 calculates an accumulated amount corresponding to the BET operation and transmits it to the storage or external control device 621, and moves the processing to S15.

  In S15, the main CPU 71 executes a base game symbol determination process. In the normal game symbol determination process, symbols to be rearranged in the symbol display area 150 are determined. More specifically, the main CPU 71 determines the code numbers of symbols to be rearranged in the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425 using the tables shown in FIGS. 17A to 20B. For example, the main CPU 71 extracts a random number value within the range of the number of symbols in the symbol string, and determines a code number matching the random number value as a symbol to be rearranged. For example, when the random value is “3”, the symbol “KING” having the code number “3” is selected. Thus, the main CPU 71 determines a code number for each of the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425.

In the present embodiment, the symbol of the determined code number is displayed on the lower image display panel 141 so as to be rearranged in the middle among the upper, middle, and lower in the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425. Be controlled. The symbols rearranged in the upper and lower stages are determined based on the symbol arrangement in the tables shown in FIGS. 17A to 20B.
For example, when the symbol “KING” having the code number “3” is rearranged in the middle stage, the feature symbol “FEATURE_B” having the code number “2” is rearranged in the upper stage, and the symbol having the code number “4” is arranged in the lower stage. “ROULETTE” will be rearranged.
When the main CPU 71 finishes the normal game symbol determination process, the process moves to S16.

  In S16, the main CPU 71 performs a scroll display control process. In the scroll display control process, the main CPU 71 performs display control so that the symbols determined in S15 are rearranged after the symbol scroll display is started. Note that the main CPU 71 determines and executes whether or not to perform an indication effect (high-speed rotation effect, low-speed rotation effect, and full-screen effect) in the normal game. When the main CPU 71 finishes the scroll display control process, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S17.

  In S17, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a prize has been established. In the process of S17, the main CPU 71 counts the number of symbols rearranged on the active payline for each active payline for each symbol type. Then, it is determined whether or not the counted number is a predetermined number or more. Further, it is determined whether or not a predetermined number or more of feature symbols 503 have been rearranged. If the main CPU 71 determines in S17 that a prize has not been established, the main CPU 71 ends the normal game execution process. If the main CPU 71 determines that a prize has been established, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S18.

  In S18, the main CPU 71 refers to the odds data (data indicating the BET rate) stored in the RAM 73, determines the payout by multiplying the payout number for each winning combination and the BET rate, and receives a credit number counter. Update processing (payout processing) is performed. For example, processing for determining the number of payouts (payout) based on the BET rate, effect display processing for the number of payouts, processing for adding the number of payouts to the player's credits, etc. When the main CPU 71 completes the payout process, the process proceeds to S19.

  In S <b> 19, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the trigger condition A is satisfied by rearranging a predetermined number or more of feature symbols “FEATURE_A”. When determining that the trigger condition A is not satisfied, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S24, and when determining that the trigger condition A is satisfied, shifts the process to S20.

  In S20, the main CPU 71 executes a selection game execution process. Although details will be described later, in the selection game execution process, it is determined which of the free game A and the free game B is to be executed. When the main CPU 71 finishes the selected game execution process, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S21.

  In S21, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the free game A is selected in the selected game execution process. When determining that the free game A is selected, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S22, and when determining that the free game A is not selected, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S23.

  In S22, the main CPU 71 conducts a free game A execution process, and moves the process to S24. The details of the free game A execution process will be described later (see FIG. 54).

  In S23, the main CPU 71 conducts a free game B execution process, and moves the process to S24. The details of the free game B execution process will be described later (see FIG. 55).

  In S <b> 24, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the trigger condition B is satisfied by rearranging a predetermined number or more of feature symbols “FEATURE_B”. If the main CPU 71 determines that the trigger condition B is not satisfied, the main CPU 71 ends the normal game execution process. If the main CPU 71 determines that the trigger condition B is satisfied, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S25.

  In S25, the main CPU 71 performs a free game B execution process and ends the normal game execution process. The details of the free game B execution process will be described later (see FIG. 55).

(Jackpot related processing)
As shown in FIG. 52, in the jackpot-related processing, first, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the progressive function is ON (S31). If the main CPU 71 determines that the progressive function is ON, the process proceeds to S32. If the main CPU 71 determines that the progressive function is not ON, the main CPU 71 ends the jackpot-related process.
As shown in FIG. 43, since “NONE” is not defined, the process of S31 may be omitted.

  In S32, the main CPU 71 calculates the accumulated amount. More specifically, the main CPU 71 calculates the accumulated amount to the jackpot amount based on the product of the value stored in the BET number storage area and the increase rate (preset accumulation rate) shown in FIG. 49 or 50. Is calculated.

  In S33, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the jackpot type is a stand-alone type (STAND ALONE format). More specifically, the main CPU 71 acquires information in which any of the values (STAND ALONE, LINK) shown in FIG. 43 stored in the RAM 73 is designated, and the acquired information is “STAND ALONE” and “LINK”. It is determined whether or not the information indicates any of the above. If the main CPU 71 determines that the type of jackpot is a stand-alone type, it moves the process to S34, and if it determines that the type of jackpot is not a stand-alone type (STAND ALONE format), it moves the process to S35.

  In S34, the main CPU 71 accumulates and stores the calculated accumulated amount in the accumulated amount storage area (jackpot payout storage area provided in the RAM 73). When the main CPU 71 ends this process, the jackpot-related process ends.

  In S <b> 35, the main CPU 71 transmits the calculated accumulated amount to the external control device 621. The external control device 621 updates the jackpot payout when it receives the accumulated amount. When the main CPU 71 ends this process, the jackpot-related process ends.

  Note that the processing is not limited to the above-described processing. For example, regardless of the type of jackpot, the determination of S31 and S33 is not performed, the accumulated amount is transmitted to the external control device 621, and the jackpot payout is managed (stored) by the external control device 621. .

(Selected game execution process)
As shown in FIG. 53, in the selected game execution process, first, the main CPU 71 executes a process of determining the option content (S41). More specifically, the main CPU 71 determines the number of free games to be associated with the five options (icons) using the lottery table shown in FIG.

  In S42, the main CPU 71 performs a selection game start process for starting the introduction effect of the selected game, the display effect of options (icons), and the like.

  In S43, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a player operation (selection) of options by the player has been performed. The main CPU 71 re-executes S43 when it is determined that no option has been selected, and moves to S44 when it is determined that the option has been selected.

  In S44, the main CPU 71 executes a selection game end process for ending the selection game end effect or the like, and ends the selection game execution process. More specifically, the main CPU 71 executes a process of displaying an image indicating that a free game associated with the selected option starts in accordance with the option content determined in S41.

(Free game A execution process)
As shown in FIG. 54, the main CPU 71 changes the currently used symbol sequence to the symbol sequences 170a to 170e shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B (S51).

  In S52, the main CPU 71 determines the number of free games by lottery based on the lottery table shown in FIG.

  In S53, the main CPU 71 sets the determined number of free games “X” as the total number of free games, and sets the current number of free games to “0”.

  In S <b> 54, the main CPU 71 determines a payout rate by lottery based on the lottery table shown in FIG. 31, and stores the determined payout rate in the RAM 73.

  In S55, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the spin button 46 has been pressed. If the main CPU 71 determines that the spin button 46 has not been pressed, step S55 is re-executed. If the main CPU 71 determines that the spin button 46 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S56.

  In S56, the main CPU 71 adds 1 to the current number of free games, and proceeds to S57.

  In S57, the main CPU 71 executes a free game A symbol determination process. More specifically, the main CPU 71 uses the table shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B to determine the symbol numbers for symbols to be rearranged in the middle of each of the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425. Determine in the same way as the process.

  In S58, the main CPU 71 executes a scroll display control process, and moves the process to S59.

  In S59, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a prize has been established. When determining that a prize has been established, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S60, and when determining that a prize has not been established, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S61.

  In S60, the main CPU 71 performs a payout process, and moves the process to S61.

  In S61, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a retrigger condition (an additional condition for the number of free games) has been satisfied (whether or not three or more feature symbols “FEATURE_A” are stopped and displayed). When determining that the retrigger condition is not satisfied, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S64, and when determining that the retrigger condition is satisfied, shifts the process to S62.

  In S62, the main CPU 71 determines the number of free games to be added by lottery based on the lottery table shown in FIG. 32, and moves the process to S63.

  In S63, the main CPU 71 adds the determined number of free games to the total number of free games, and moves the process to S64.

  In S64, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the current number of free games is the same as the total number of free games (whether or not all the determined free games have been consumed). When the main CPU 71 determines that the current number of free games is not the same as the total number of free games (when it is determined that there is an undigested free game), the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S55, and the current number of free games is equal to the total number of free games. When it is determined that the number is the same as the number (when it is determined that all the free games have been consumed), the free game A execution process is terminated.

(Free game B execution process)
As shown in FIG. 55, the main CPU 71 changes the currently used symbol sequence to the symbol sequences 170a to 170e shown in FIG. 22 or FIG. 23 (S71). More specifically, the main CPU 71 performs lottery based on the set level and the lottery table shown in FIG. 35, determines “NORMAL” or “HIGH” as the reel type, and a symbol string corresponding to the determined reel type. Change to 170a-170e.

  In S72, the main CPU 71 determines the number of free games based on the regulation table shown in FIG. 36, sets the determined number of free games “X (“ 8 ”in this example”) ”as the total number of free games, Set the number of free games to “0”.

  In S73, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the spin button 46 has been pressed. If it is determined that the spin button 46 has not been pressed, S73 is re-executed. If it is determined that the spin button 46 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S74.

  In S74, the main CPU 71 adds 1 to the current number of free games, and moves the process to S75.

  In S75, the main CPU 71 executes a free game B symbol determination process. More specifically, the main CPU 71 uses the table shown in FIG. 22 or FIG. 23 to represent the symbol code numbers to be rearranged in the middle of each of the first display column 1421 to the fifth display column 1425. It is determined in the same manner as the determination process.

  In S76, the main CPU 71 executes a scroll display control process, and moves the process to S77.

  In S77, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a prize has been established. When determining that a prize has been established, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S78, and when determining that a prize has not been established, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S82.

  In S78, the main CPU 71 performs chip accumulation processing for performing chip accumulation effects and the like (see FIG. 70), and moves the processing to S79.

  In S79, the main CPU 71 conducts a payout process and moves the process to S80.

  In the present embodiment, the configuration in which the processing in S79 is performed following the processing in S78 is shown, but the configuration is not limited to this configuration. For example, a configuration in which the process of S78 and the process of S79 are performed in parallel may be employed.

  In S80, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the challenge chip symbol 511 is included in the stopped symbols. If the main CPU 71 determines that the challenge chip symbol 511 is included in the symbols that are stopped and displayed, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S81. If the main CPU 71 determines that the challenge and display symbols do not include the challenge chip symbol 511, the process proceeds to S82. Move.

  In S81, the main CPU 71 adds the number of stopped symbols to the number of challenges, and moves the process to S82. The number of challenges is reset (initial value “0” is set) at an appropriate timing.

  In S82, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the current number of free games is the same as the total number of free games. If the main CPU 71 determines that the current number of free games is not the same as the total number of free games, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S73. If the main CPU 71 determines that the current number of free games is the same as the total number of free games, the process proceeds to S83. Move.

  In S82, the main CPU 71 conducts a jackpot game challenge process and ends the free game B execution process. The jackpot game challenge process will be described later (FIG. 56).

(Jackpot game challenge process)
As shown in FIG. 56, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the number of challenges is “0” (S91). When determining that the number of challenges is “0”, the main CPU 71 ends the jackpot game challenge process. When determining that the number of challenges is not “0”, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S92.

  In S92, the main CPU 71 subtracts “1” from the number of challenges, and moves the process to S93.

  In S93, the main CPU 71 determines a fixed payout. More specifically, the main CPU 71 determines the payout rate by lottery based on the lottery table shown in FIG. 41, and determines the fixed payout by multiplying the determined payout rate by the total number of BETs.

  In S94, the main CPU 71 conducts a payout process and moves the process to S95.

  In S95, the main CPU 71 conducts a jackpot game acquisition lottery. More specifically, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not to acquire based on a lottery table shown in FIG.

  In S96, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a jackpot game has been acquired. When determining that the jackpot game has been acquired, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S97, and when determining that the jackpot game has not been acquired, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S91.

  In S97, the main CPU 71 performs a jackpot game execution process and ends the jackpot game challenge process.

(Jackpot game execution process)
As shown in FIG. 57, the main CPU 71 acquires the amount of jackpot (S101). More specifically, when the jackpot type is a stand-alone type, the main CPU 71 acquires the jackpot amount (credit value) from the accumulated amount storage area. On the other hand, when the type of jackpot is a link type (LINK format), the amount of jackpot is acquired from the external control device 621. When the main CPU 71 completes this process, the process shifts to S102.

  In S <b> 102, the main CPU 71 executes processing for determining option contents. More specifically, the main CPU 71 determines the contents of the jackpot payout using the lottery table shown in FIG. 47, and sets 15 options (icons) so that only the determined jackpot payout is selected. .

  In S103, the main CPU 71 conducts a selection game start process for displaying the set options on the lower image display panel 141, and moves the process to S104.

  In S104, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not an option has been selected (whether or not a player has been operated). If the main CPU 71 determines that an option has been selected, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S105, and if it determines that no option has been selected, the main CPU 71 re-executes S104.

  In S105, the main CPU 71 performs a selection content display process. More specifically, the main CPU 71 displays which jackpot payout is associated with the selected option (FIGS. 72A and 72B).

  In S106, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a prize has been established. When determining that a prize has been established, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S107, and when determining that a prize has not been established, the main CPU 71 shifts the process to S104.

  In S107, the main CPU 71 conducts payout processing and ends the jackpot game execution processing.

(WIN production)
FIG. 58 shows an example of a WIN effect. The WIN effect is an effect that emphasizes a winning combination (win line) when a win occurs (for example, an effect performed in a payout process). In the slot machine 10, after all video reels are stopped, the win frame for each winning combination and the remaining frame (for example, a gray frame) for the remaining portion on the active line are set for the first time (for example, 0.3 seconds). ) Display and gray out symbols not related to win.

  The display of frames (win frame and remaining frame) is performed in ascending order of line numbers. An appropriate color can be adopted as the color of the win frame. For example, a plurality of colors (red, blue, yellow, pink, green, light blue) may be provided, and red → blue → yellow → peach → green → light blue → red →... (Hereinafter looped).

For example, when the number of active paylines is “50” and a prize is established in LINE4, LINE24, and LINE44 of the active paylines, effects for each winning combination are performed as shown in FIG.
More specifically, a win frame 1461 that emphasizes the winning combination in LINE4, a win frame 1462 that emphasizes the winning combination in LINE24, a win frame 1463 that emphasizes the winning combination in LINE44, and the remaining frames on the remaining portions of the active line. 1464 are displayed sequentially.

In addition, before starting the display of each winning combination, a configuration may be adopted in which an entire frame is individually displayed for a second time (for example, 1 second) longer than the first time for all symbols related to wins. .
Further, as described above, in the present slot machine 10, when a plurality of winning combinations are generated, effects are performed in ascending order of line numbers. However, the configuration is not limited to this. For example, you may employ | adopt the structure where an effect is performed from the order with many payouts.

  In addition, as described above, while the display modes of the win frame and the remaining frame are made different (the color is taken as an example, the shape, size, etc. may be made different), while the display mode of the win frame and the remaining frame is made. By changing as a unit, it is possible to emphasize the win line and to easily identify a symbol related to the winning combination.

(WIN production involving wild symbols)
59 and 60 are diagrams illustrating an example of a WIN effect involving wild symbols.
When a winning combination is generated by a plurality of wild symbols 504 (“WILD”) as shown in the stop display mode shown in FIG. 59 and FIG. 60, a blanking effect 1471 of the plurality of wild symbols 504 is performed.

  More specifically, when a winning combination involving the wild symbol 504 occurs in any valid payline after the scroll display is stopped, a blanking effect 1471 is performed depending on the number of wild symbols 504 appearing in the win frame. Is called. Thereafter, a frame 1472 for emphasizing the entire win line (which may be each win line) is displayed over (overlapped with) the cut out wild symbol 504.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 60, when the wild symbols 504 appear in triples or doubles, but there are wild symbols 504 that are not involved in the winning combination by line selection, the range in which the line selection is valid (on the active payline) ) Is performed to produce a cut-out effect 1473. In other words, the blanking effect 1473 is not performed for the wild symbol 504 in which no winning combination has occurred. Note that a frame 1474 for emphasizing the entire win line (may be each win line) is displayed over the wild symbol 504 that has been cut out after the cut out effect 1473 has occurred.

(Confirmed production)
FIG. 61 is a diagram illustrating an example of a confirmed effect of a feature game. The confirmed effect is an effect indicating that the free game B starts before all video reels are stopped when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 61, when the pseudo reels 151 to 155 are spun (display mode 1481), six or more feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are stopped and displayed, and a final effect is performed by lottery. If determined, the lower image display panel 141 is darkened for a predetermined time (display mode 1482). Note that the meters such as the credit meter display unit 1411, the BET meter display unit 1412, and the WIN meter display unit 1413 are configured so as not to disappear (visible). Further, the intermediate image display panel 142 is not darkened.

  Subsequently, all the video reels (reel bands) are faded in so that they can be gradually seen (can be grasped) (display mode 1483).

  Subsequently, all the video reels are stopped (simultaneously stopped) all at once (display mode 1484).

(Composition of bonus game)

<Configuration A: Introduction of free game (FIG. 62)>
When a predetermined number or more of the feature symbols “FEATURE_A” are stopped and displayed, a silly sound is generated (display mode 1501). Subsequently, an introduction effect to the selected game (pick game) is performed (display mode 1502). Subsequently, a screen on which one of a plurality of silhouettes (options) can be selected is displayed (display mode 1503). For example, when the leftmost silhouette is picked (selected by a player operation) (display mode 1504), the selection is performed. Which of the free game A and the free game B is associated with the leftmost silhouette is displayed (display mode 1505). The four silhouettes that were not selected are grayed out.

<Configuration B-1: When Free Game A is Selected (FIG. 63)>
When the free game A is selected in the selected game, it is displayed which free game is associated with the other four silhouettes not selected (display mode 1511). Subsequently, the lottery of the number of free games and the payout rate is performed in the order of lottery of the number of free games and the lottery of the payout rate, and the lottery result is displayed (display mode 1512). Subsequently, switching to the free game screen is performed (display mode 1513), the free game screen is displayed (display mode 1514), and scroll display is started (display mode 1515).
On the free game screen, a payout rate “ALL WINS 5 × xx” 1514A is displayed at the top of the pseudo reels 151 to 155, and a free game counter 1514B is displayed at the lower right of the lower image display panel 141.

<Configuration B-2: When free game B is selected (FIG. 64)>
When the free game B is selected in the selected game, which free game is associated with the other four silhouettes not selected is displayed (display mode 1521). Subsequently, an introductory effect to the free game B is performed (display mode 1522), a message 1523A indicating that the free game B starts (display mode 1523), and an explanation signboard 1524A of the free game B is displayed (display mode). 1524). Subsequently, a free game screen is displayed (display mode 1525), and scroll display starts (display mode 1526).
In the free game screen, a free game counter 1525A is displayed at the lower right of the lower image display panel 141.

<Configuration C: End of free game (FIG. 65)>
When all the free games have been consumed, when all the video reels are stopped, when a win combination is generated, a WIN effect is performed and a total win signboard 1531A is displayed (display mode 1531). Subsequently, switching from the free game screen to the normal game screen is performed (display mode 1532), and the triggered normal game screen is displayed (display mode 1533).

<Configuration D: Simultaneous winning (FIG. 66A, FIG. 66B)>
When a predetermined number or more of feature symbols “FEATURE_A” are stopped and displayed, and when a specified number or more of feature symbols “FEATURE_B” are stopped and displayed, a Gilly re-ring sound is generated (display mode 1541). Subsequently, an introduction effect to the selected game (pick game) is performed (display mode 1542). When the free game is digested and all the video reels are stopped in the same manner as in the configurations A to C described above, when a win combination is generated, a WIN effect is performed and a total win signboard 1543A is displayed (display mode) 1543). Subsequently, the free game screen is switched to the normal game screen (display mode 1544), and the triggered normal game screen is displayed (display mode 1545). Subsequently, an introduction effect to the free game B is performed (display mode 1546), a message 1547A indicating that the free game B starts (display mode 1547), and an explanation signboard 1548A of the free game B is displayed (display mode). 1548). Subsequently, the explanation signboard 1548A is removed (display mode 1549), a free game screen is displayed (display mode 1550), and scroll display starts (display mode 1551).

<Configuration E: Retrigger (FIG. 67)>
When a predetermined number or more of the feature symbols “FEATURE_A” are stopped and displayed during the free game A (display mode 1561), a message 1562A indicating retrigger is displayed (display mode 1562). Subsequently, a lottery is performed only for the number of free games, and the number of free games to be added and the payout rate (the same payout rate as when the trigger is made because no lottery is made) are displayed (display mode 1563). Subsequently, an effect of adding the number of free games is performed (display mode 1564). When the addition of the number of free games is completed, a free game screen is displayed (display mode 1565), and the next scroll display is started ( Display mode 1566).

<Configuration F: Accounting introduction (Fig. 68)>
In the free game B, when scroll display is started (display mode 1571) and a chip symbol (here, “RED” or “BLUE”) is stopped (display mode 1572), the chip symbol is inverted. , A number is displayed. At this time, a chip accumulation effect is performed in which the stopped-displayed chip symbols move to the 2nd screen (intermediate image display panel 142) and accumulate. Subsequently, the next scroll display is started (display mode 1573), and when the remaining number of free games is consumed (display mode 1574), a message signboard 1575A indicating that the screen is shifted to the accounting screen is displayed (display mode 1575). ). At this timing, the free game counter 1574A is removed.

<Configuration G: Chip accumulation (FIG. 69)>
In the chip accumulation effect, the symbol “WHITE” is stacked in the first chip storage area 1331, the symbol “RED” is stacked in the second chip storage area 1332, and the symbol “BLUE” is stacked in the third chip storage area 1333. Stacked (display mode 1581). Each chip storage area can store 10 symbols (can be stored), and when the 11th is acquired, a group of 10 stacked chip symbols is moved (display mode 1582). Then, when 20 sheets are accumulated and the 21st sheet is acquired, a group of 10 chip symbols stacked is moved (display mode 1583). In addition, when 30 sheets are accumulated and the 31st sheet is acquired, a group of 10 stacked chip symbols is moved (display mode 1584). Similarly, up to 135 chip symbols are stacked (display mode 1585).

<Configuration H: chip movement (FIG. 70)>
In the free game B, when the scroll display is started (display mode 1591) and the chip symbol (here, “RED” or “BLUE”) is stopped (display mode 1592), the chip symbol is inverted. From the chip symbol above the left video reel where the number is displayed and stopped, the 2nd screen (intermediate image display panel 142) is sequentially moved (may be duplicated) and stacked (display mode) 1593-1596). At that time, the amount of the chip symbol (symbol “RED” and symbol “BLUE”) is added to the WIN meter 1341. For the symbol “WHITE”, the amount is later determined by lottery and added.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can feel the amount of money acquired by seeing the amount of money added one by one, so that the situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided. become.

<Configuration I: Accounting (FIGS. 71A to 71C)>
In the free game B, when all the free games are consumed (display mode 1601), the accumulated chip symbols are moved (duplicated) to the 1st screen (lower image display panel 141) (display mode 1602). The meter 1351 on which the acquired number is displayed remains displayed on the 2nd screen (intermediate image display panel 142).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the symbol “WHITE” (big chip) has been acquired (determination process 1603). When it is determined that the symbol is not acquired, the total win signboard is displayed without performing the settlement of the symbol “WHITE” (display process 1604). On the other hand, if it is determined that it has been acquired, all acquired symbols “WHITE” are moved to the center of the screen, and other displays are grayed out (the luminance may be lowered) (display mode 1605).

  Subsequently, a lottery relating to a fixed payout and a lottery relating to a shift to a jackpot game are performed, and it is determined whether or not a jackpot game has been won (determination process 1606). When it is determined that the jackpot game has been acquired (in the case where only the credit is not acquired), the jackpot game is started (start process 1607). On the other hand, when it is determined that the jackpot game has not been acquired (when only credits are acquired), the WIN meter of the symbol “WHITE” and the acquired credits are displayed (display mode 1608), and the display is finished. “WHITE” is returned to the original position (display mode 1609).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not there is an unprocessed symbol “WHITE” (remaining number) (determination process 1610). If it is determined that there is a remaining number, it is determined again whether or not the jackpot game has been acquired (repeat processing 1611). On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no remaining number, the calculation formulas are displayed in order (display mode 1612). The calculation formula is displayed even when the number of acquired sheets is 0.

  According to the above configuration, for example, the player expects the rearrangement of the symbol “WHITE” in the free game B, and draws the lottery related to the fixed payout and the lottery related to the transition to the jackpot game until the end of the free game B. You will be able to maintain expectations for the results.

<Configuration J: Jackpot game (FIG. 72A, FIG. 72B)>
When 1621A indicating that the jackpot game is to be started is displayed (display mode 1621), the screen is darkened (display mode 1622), and the jackpot game screen includes 1623B that prompts the user to touch the chip image 1623A (multiple options). Is displayed (display mode 1623). The player operation is accepted until three chips of the same type are collected (display mode 1624).
A plurality of options (in this example, a chip image associated with the grand jackpot bonus, a chip image associated with the major jackpot bonus, and a chip image associated with the minor jackpot bonus) are 1 One option includes an option in which two symbols (double symbol 1624A) are hidden.

(Example of screen display)
FIG. 73 and FIG. 74 are views showing an example of specific modes of the slot machine 10.

  FIG. 73 is a diagram showing a screen display example (display mode 1710) of the lower image display panel 141 and the intermediate image display panel 142 in the base game. More specifically, this is a screen display example when six feature symbols 1711 (“FEATURE_B”) are stopped and displayed in the base game.

When six feature symbols 1711 are stopped and displayed, the feature symbol 1711 is inverted and the numerical value “50” associated with the symbol “BLUE” is displayed (in other words, the feature symbol is mainly used in the free game). The free game B is started). According to the above configuration, for example, since the symbol that the player is paying attention is changed from the mode indicating the normal game to the mode indicating the free game, the player can easily grasp the transition from the normal game to the free game. Further, according to the above configuration, for example, when the feature symbol 1711 is rearranged in an area of 40% (six symbols / 15 display blocks × 10) or more of the symbol display area 150, the game shifts to the free game B. The player can more easily recognize the direct transition to the free game B.
Note that the chip symbols changed from the feature symbols 1711 acquired in the base game are taken over to the start screen of the free game B and displayed in a stacked manner.

  Also, the value (payout) of the payout table 1712 is changed according to the BET operation. As a result, the player can grasp the number of payouts in advance.

  FIG. 74 is a view showing a screen display example (display mode 1720) of the lower image display panel 141 and the intermediate image display panel 142 in the free game B. More specifically, in the free game B, a screen display example when five chip symbols 1721 (“BLUE”) and one chip symbol 1722 (“WHITE”) are stopped and displayed. Note that immediately before the stop display, the chip symbols 1721 are turned over (numbers are hidden), and are simultaneously reversed.

  The stopped-displayed chip symbol 1721 (“BLUE”) is accumulated and displayed on the third chip display unit 1723, and a symbol value (a numerical value associated with the chip symbol) is added to the WIN meter display unit 1724. . According to the above configuration, for example, the player can directly grasp the profits obtained each time the chip symbols are rearranged, so that a situation in which the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided. In addition, according to the above configuration, for example, the player can more effectively realize the earned profit by looking at the stacked chip symbols, so that the situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided. become.

  The stopped-displayed chip symbol 1722 (“WHITE”) is accumulated and displayed on the first chip display unit 1725, but the value of the WIN meter display unit 1724 is not changed. For the chip symbol 1722, after all the free games have been consumed, a fixed payout lottery and a jackpot payout lottery are performed, and the value of the WIN meter display portion 1724 is changed based on these results.

The chip symbol is colored. The chip symbol 1721 is blue, and the chip symbol 1722 is white. The chip symbol “RED” is red.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can more easily grasp the profit such as the acquired symbol value by looking at the color of the symbol, and pay attention to the rearranged symbols. The situation where the game progresses monotonously can be avoided.

<Second Embodiment>
In this embodiment, a case where the present invention is applied to a machine different from the slot machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG. That is, in the first embodiment, the slot machine 10 is exemplified as the game machine. However, the slot machine 10 is not limited to the slot machine 10. For example, a personal computer that can be played by installing a game program (application) of the slot machine 10, smart It may be a terminal such as a phone or a tablet.
In this embodiment, a configuration different from the configuration shown in the first embodiment will be mainly described, and the same reference numerals are used for the same configurations as the configurations shown in the first embodiment, and the description will be appropriately described. Omitted.

FIG. 75 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tablet 1900. The tablet 1900 has a configuration shown in FIG.
The tablet 1900 includes an upper display unit 1911, a middle display unit 1912, and a lower display unit 1913.
The upper display unit 1911 has a screen configuration similar to that of the intermediate image display panel 142, and displays the same content as that displayed on the intermediate image display panel 142. The middle display unit 1912 has a screen configuration similar to that of the lower image display panel 141, and displays the same content as that displayed on the lower image display panel 141. In the lower display 1919, the buttons on the control panel 30 are displayed as icons. The function of each button and the function of each icon are the same.

  The configurations shown in the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be appropriately combined.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the above-described embodiment will be described from various aspects.

  Conventionally, there has been known a slot machine (an example of a gaming machine) that scrolls and displays a plurality of types of symbols and then stops and displays coins (an example of a game medium) based on a combination of symbols that have been stopped (a winning pattern). It has been.

  Furthermore, such slot machines include a slot machine that executes a free game when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the game (for example, when a specific symbol is stopped and displayed) (US Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0146315). A free game is a game that can be started without betting a game medium, and can be played without consuming the game medium.

Since a free game is a game that can be played without consuming game media, in general, a player plays a game with a strong interest in moving to a free game.
Further, when the game is shifted to the free game, there is a possibility that the profit is increased without consuming the game medium, and as a player, the expectation for the profit that can be obtained by the free game is increased.
However, simply increasing the probability of moving to a free game or increasing the profits that can be earned from the free game will cause the player to feel that the free game is monotonously shifted and digested. .

  The following gaming machines have been made in view of the above problems, and provide gaming machines that execute various controls relating to free games.

(Appendix A)
The gaming machine (gaming machine 300, gaming machine 2000, slot machine 10, tablet 1900, personal computer, smart phone, etc.) according to the A-1th aspect of the embodiment described above is
Symbol display area (symbol display area 150, etc.) that can display symbols (symbol 501, normal symbol 502, feature symbol 503, wild symbol 504, chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.) and the value of earned profit are displayed A display unit (display unit 2002, lower image display panel 141, etc.) having a possible profit display area (WIN meter display unit 1413, WIN meter display unit 1724, etc.);
A control unit (control unit 2003, main CPU 71, etc.) that performs various controls,
The controller is
Determine whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied (e.g., a predetermined number or more of specific feature symbols are stopped and displayed in the base game, trigger condition B, selection of the free game B can be selected in the challenge game, etc.) If it is determined that a free game (such as Free Game B)
In the free game, a plurality of symbols including a symbol with a numerical value (chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.) are rearranged in the symbol display area,
The numerical value is added to the value of the profit display area based on the rearrangement of the symbol indicating the numerical value in the symbol display area (see FIG. 1 and the like).

In the above configuration, various controls relating to the free game are executed such that when the symbols with numerical values shown in the free game are rearranged, the numerical values are reflected as they are in the profits obtained.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can directly grasp the profits obtained each time the symbols are rearranged, so that a situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided.

The gaming machine according to the A-2nd aspect of the embodiment described above,
The control unit determines the numerical value based on the number of BETs used in the game when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, the total number of BETs when the free game B is triggered). (See FIG. 40 and the like).

In the above configuration, various controls relating to the free game are executed such that the symbol value is determined based on the BET number used in the game when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can increase the number of BETs so that the number of symbols used in the free game increases, and the player's involvement can be encouraged. Can be increased.

The gaming machine according to the A-3rd aspect of the embodiment described above,
The display unit is a gaming chip display area (a first chip display unit 1451, a second chip display unit 1452, a first chip display region) capable of displaying gaming chips (first chip image, second chip image, third chip image, etc.). 3 chip display portion 1453)
The control unit adds the numerical value to the profit display area and stacks and displays the gaming chips indicated by the numerical value in the gaming chip display area (see FIG. 74 and the like).

In the above configuration, various controls related to the free game are executed such that the gaming chips indicating the rearranged symbol values are stacked and displayed in the gaming chip display area.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can more effectively realize the profits gained by looking at the stacked gaming chips, so that the situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided. Become.

The gaming machine according to the A-4th aspect of the embodiment described above,
The plurality of symbols are provided in a plurality of symbol columns (pseudo reels 151 to 155, symbol columns 170a to 170e, etc.),
The symbol display area includes a plurality of columns and a plurality of lines (such as the display block 28).
The control unit adds each of the numerical values to the value of the profit display area one by one according to a predetermined order based on a plurality of symbols having the numerical values rearranged in the symbol display area. (Refer to FIG. 70 and the like).

In the above configuration, based on the fact that a plurality of symbols with numerical values are rearranged in the symbol display area, each value of the rearranged symbols is set to one value in the profit display area according to a predetermined order. Various controls related to the free game are executed.
According to the above-described configuration, for example, the player can feel the earned profit more by seeing the value of the profit display area added one by one, so that the free game progresses monotonously. Can be avoided.

The gaming machine according to the A-5th aspect of the embodiment described above,
A plurality of types of symbols indicated by the numerical values are provided, and colors (blue, red, etc.) defined according to the respective numerical values are attached (see FIG. 74, etc.).

  According to the above configuration, for example, the player can more easily grasp the acquired profit by looking at the color of the symbol, and pay attention to the rearranged symbols, so that the free game is monotonous. You can avoid the situation of progress.

(Appendix B)
The gaming machine (gaming machine 300, gaming machine 2000, slot machine 10, tablet 1900, personal computer, smart phone, etc.) according to the B-1th aspect of the embodiment described above is
A display unit (display unit 2002, symbol display region 150, etc.) that can display symbols (symbol 501, normal symbol 502, feature symbol 503, wild symbol 504, chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.). Lower image display panel 141),
A control unit (control unit 2003, main CPU 71, etc.) for controlling a plurality of free games (free game A, free game B, etc.) including a predetermined free game (free game B, etc.) that can be given a bonus game;
An input unit (input unit 2001) that receives a selection operation (player operation, etc.) for selecting one option from a plurality of options (a plurality of silhouettes, a plurality of boxes, etc.) associated with any of the plurality of free games. , Touch panel 69, etc.)
The controller is
It is determined whether or not a predetermined condition (a predetermined number or more of predetermined feature symbols are stopped and displayed in the base game, trigger condition A, etc.) is satisfied. A free game (free game A, free game B, etc.) associated with the selected option,
The predetermined free game is executed based on the rearrangement of a predetermined number or more of predetermined symbols (feature symbol “FEATURE_B” or the like) in the symbol display area (see FIG. 1 and the like).

In the above configuration, when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, a free game associated with the option selected via the input unit is executed, and a predetermined number or more of the predetermined symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area. Based on this, various controls relating to the free game are executed, such as executing a predetermined free game that can give a bonus game.
According to the above configuration, for example, when a predetermined number or more of predetermined symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area, a predetermined free game is directly executed from among a plurality of free games without performing a selection operation. Each time a predetermined symbol is rearranged, it is possible to increase the expectation for the transition to a predetermined free game in which a bonus game can be awarded.

The gaming machine according to the B-2th aspect of the embodiment described above,
The symbol display area includes a plurality of columns and a plurality of lines (such as the display block 28).
The control unit determines the predetermined symbol based on the rearrangement of the predetermined symbol in an area equal to or higher than a predetermined ratio of the symbol display area (40% (= 6/15 area × 10) or higher). A free game is executed (see FIG. 73 and the like). The predetermined ratio is not limited to 40%, and may be 30%, 20%, 10%, or the like.

In the above configuration, various controls relating to the free game are executed such that the predetermined free game is executed based on the rearrangement of the predetermined symbol in an area of a predetermined ratio or more of the symbol display area.
According to the above configuration, for example, when a predetermined symbol is rearranged in an area of a predetermined ratio or more of the symbol display area, the player shifts to the predetermined free game, so that the player directly shifts to the predetermined free game. It becomes easier to recognize.

The gaming machine according to the B-3rd aspect of the embodiment described above,
The control unit assigns a first symbol group for a free game (such as a symbol string shown in FIG. 22) based on the rearrangement of the predetermined symbols in the symbol display area by a predetermined number or more and less than a specific number. A second symbol group (symbol shown in FIG. 23), which is more advantageous than the first symbol group, is selected based on the first probability and a predetermined number or more of the predetermined symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area. Column etc.) is selected with the second probability, and the predetermined free game is executed (see FIG. 35, etc.). Note that the first probability and the second probability are 50% or more and may be the same or different.

In the above configuration, the first symbol group for the free game is selected based on the fact that the predetermined symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area by a predetermined number or more and less than a specific number. Based on this, a second symbol group that is more advantageous than the first symbol group is selected and a predetermined free game is executed, and various controls relating to the free game are executed.
According to the above configuration, for example, every time a predetermined symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, it is possible to further increase the expectation for the transition to the predetermined free game in which the second symbol group is used. Become.

(Appendix C)
The gaming machine (gaming machine 300, gaming machine 2000, slot machine 10, tablet 1900, personal computer, smart phone, etc.) according to the C-1th aspect of the embodiment described above is
A display unit (display unit 2002, symbol display region 150, etc.) that can display symbols (symbol 501, normal symbol 502, feature symbol 503, wild symbol 504, chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.). Lower image display panel 141),
A control unit (control unit 2003, main CPU 71, etc.) that controls a plurality of free games (free game A, free game B, etc.) including a predetermined free game (free game B, etc.)
The controller is
The predetermined free game is executed based on a rearrangement of a predetermined number or more of first symbols (feature symbols “FEATURE_A”, etc.) in the symbol display area,
The predetermined free game is executed based on the rearrangement of a predetermined number or more of second symbols (feature symbols “FEATURE_B”, etc.) in the symbol display area (see FIG. 1 and the like).

In the above configuration, a predetermined free game is executed based on the rearrangement of a predetermined number or more of the first symbols in the symbol display area, and a predetermined number or more of the second symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area. Various controls related to the free game are executed such that a predetermined free game is executed on the basis thereof.
According to the above configuration, for example, even if the first symbol is rearranged or the second symbol is rearranged in the symbol display area, the transition to a predetermined free game can be expected. It becomes possible to avoid the situation where the transition to the free game becomes monotonous.

The gaming machine according to the C-2nd aspect of the embodiment described above,
An input unit (input unit 2001) that receives a selection operation (player operation, etc.) for selecting one option from a plurality of options (a plurality of silhouettes, a plurality of boxes, etc.) associated with any of the plurality of free games. , Touch panel 69, etc.)
The control unit specifies a free game associated with the option selected via the input unit based on the rearrangement of the first number or more of the first symbols in the symbol display area, When the specified free game is the predetermined free game, the predetermined free game is executed (see FIG. 30 and the like).

In the above configuration, the free game associated with the option selected via the input unit is identified based on the rearrangement of the first symbol or more in the symbol display area, and the identified free game In the case of a predetermined free game, various controls related to the free game are executed such as executing the predetermined free game.
According to the above configuration, even when a predetermined number or more of the first symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area, the predetermined free game is executed when the predetermined free game is associated with the option by the selection operation. Therefore, it is possible to further avoid the situation where the transition to the predetermined free game becomes monotonous.

The gaming machine according to the C-3rd aspect of the embodiment described above,
The control unit awards a payout according to the number of BETs (total number of BETs, etc.) based on the rearrangement of the first symbol or more in the symbol display area. (See FIG. 28).

In the above configuration, various controls related to the free game are executed such that a payout corresponding to the number of BETs is awarded based on the rearrangement of a specific number or more of the first symbols in the symbol display area.
According to the above configuration, for example, the number of BETs can be increased so as to increase the payout, and the player can be encouraged to participate. Can be expected to transition.

The gaming machine according to the C-4th aspect of the embodiment described above,
Of the plurality of free games, a free game to which a bonus game can be awarded is only the predetermined free game (see FIG. 10 and the like).

  According to the above configuration, for example, since a bonus game can be awarded in a predetermined free game having a plurality of triggers, it is possible to further increase the sense of expectation for the predetermined free game.

(Appendix D)
The gaming machine (gaming machine 300, gaming machine 2000, slot machine 10, tablet 1900, personal computer, smart phone, etc.) according to the D-1th aspect of the embodiment described above is
A display unit (display unit 2002, symbol display region 150, etc.) that can display symbols (symbol 501, normal symbol 502, feature symbol 503, wild symbol 504, chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.). Lower image display panel 141),
A control unit (control unit 2003, main CPU 71, etc.) for controlling a plurality of free games (free game A, free game B, etc.) including a predetermined free game (free game B, etc.) that can be given a bonus game;
An input unit (input unit 2001) that receives a selection operation (player operation, etc.) for selecting one option from a plurality of options (a plurality of silhouettes, a plurality of boxes, etc.) associated with any of the plurality of free games. , Touch panel 69, etc.)
The control unit rearranges a predetermined number or more of first symbols (feature symbols “FEATURE_A”, etc.) in the symbol display area, and rearranges a predetermined number or more of second symbols (feature symbols “FEATURE_B”, etc.). Based on the determination that both the first symbol and the second symbol have been rearranged, a free game associated with the option selected via the input unit is executed. Further, the predetermined free game is executed (see FIG. 1 and the like).

In the above configuration, based on the determination that the predetermined number or more of the first symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area and the predetermined number or more of the second symbols are rearranged, the option selected via the input unit is selected. Various controls related to the free game are executed, such as executing the associated free game and further executing a predetermined free game.
According to the above configuration, for example, after a free game related to the selection operation is executed, a predetermined free game to which a bonus game can be given is executed, so it is possible to maintain expectation for acquiring the bonus game.

The gaming machine according to the D-2th aspect of the embodiment described above,
The plurality of free games are the predetermined free game and a specific free game (such as free game A),
The controller is
In the predetermined free game, a plurality of symbols (chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.) including symbols relating to the bonus game (challenge chip symbol 511, etc.) are rearranged on the symbol display unit,
In the specific free game, a plurality of symbols including only symbols related to payout (normal symbol 502, wild symbol 504, etc.) and symbols related to the specific free game (feature symbol 503, etc.) are rearranged on the symbol display section. It is characterized by doing.

In the above configuration, in a specific free game, various controls related to the free game are executed, such as rearranging a plurality of symbols including only a symbol related to payout and a symbol related to the specific free game on the symbol display unit. Is done.
According to the above configuration, for example, even when a specific free game can be triggered in a specific free game, a predetermined free game is performed thereafter, and the expectation for acquiring a bonus game can be maintained. It is possible to avoid the situation where the free game is monotonously shifted.

(Appendix E)
The gaming machine (gaming machine 300, gaming machine 2000, slot machine 10, tablet 1900, personal computer, smart phone, etc.) according to the E-1th aspect of the embodiment described above is
A display unit (display unit 2002, symbol display region 150, etc.) that can display symbols (symbol 501, normal symbol 502, feature symbol 503, wild symbol 504, chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.). Lower image display panel 141),
A control unit (control unit 2003, main CPU 71, etc.) that performs various controls,
The controller is
Determine whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied (e.g., a predetermined number or more of specific feature symbols are stopped and displayed in the base game, trigger condition B, selection of the free game B can be selected in the challenge game, etc.) If it is determined that a free game (such as Free Game B)
In the free game, a plurality of symbols (chip symbol 510, challenge chip symbol 511, etc.) including a predetermined symbol (challenge chip symbol 511, etc.) are rearranged in the symbol display area,
Whether a first lottery for determining a payout to be awarded (a lottery for granting only a fixed payout) is performed and a bonus game is awarded based on the rearrangement of the predetermined symbol in the symbol display area A second lottery to determine whether or not (a lottery to shift to a jackpot game that can acquire a jackpot game) is performed (see FIG. 1 and the like).

In the above configuration, the first lottery for determining the payout to be awarded is performed based on the fact that the predetermined symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area in the free game, and whether or not the bonus game is to be awarded is determined. Various controls related to the free game are executed, such as performing the lottery of 2.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can expect the rearrangement of predetermined symbols in which the first lottery and the second lottery are performed in the free game. The situation can be avoided.

The gaming machine according to the E-2th aspect of the embodiment described above,
The controller is
In the free game, the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged in the symbol display area is counted,
When the free game is ended, the first lottery and the second lottery are performed in accordance with the counted number (see FIGS. 71A to 71C and the like).

In the above configuration, when the free game is ended, various controls related to the free game are executed such that the first lottery and the second lottery are performed according to the counted number.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can maintain the expectation for the lottery results of the first lottery and the second lottery until the end of the free game while expecting the rearrangement of predetermined symbols in the free game. Become.

The gaming machine according to the E-3th aspect of the embodiment described above,
The display unit further includes an image display area (a first chip display unit 1451 or the like) capable of displaying a symbol image (a first chip image or the like) corresponding to the predetermined symbol,
The controller is
In the free game, based on the fact that the predetermined symbol has been rearranged in the symbol display area, the symbol images are stacked and displayed,
When the free game is ended, the first lottery and the second lottery are performed according to the number of the stacked symbol images (FIG. 70, FIG. 71A to FIG. 71C, FIG. 74). Etc.)

In the above configuration, in the free game, based on the fact that the predetermined symbols are rearranged in the symbol display area, the symbol images are displayed in a stacked manner, and when the free game is terminated, the number of the symbol images stacked is determined. Various controls relating to the free game are executed such as performing the first lottery and the second lottery.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can more effectively realize the gain obtained by looking at the stacked symbol images, so that the situation where the free game progresses monotonously can be avoided. .

The gaming machine according to the E-4th aspect of the embodiment described above,
In the first lottery, the control unit determines one magnification from a plurality of magnifications (“4”, “5”, “8”, “10”, etc.) defined in advance, and the predetermined condition is A value obtained by multiplying the BET number (total BET number or the like) used in the game when it is determined to be satisfied by the one magnification is determined as the payout (see FIG. 41 or the like).

In the above configuration, in the first lottery, a value obtained by multiplying the BET number used in the game when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied by one magnification determined from a plurality of predetermined magnifications is determined as a dividend. As described above, various controls related to the free game are executed.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can increase the number of BETs so that the payout obtained in the first lottery is increased, and the player's involvement can be encouraged. Can be increased.

The gaming machine according to the E-5th aspect of the embodiment described above,
In the second lottery, the control table has a relatively high probability that a bonus game is given as the number of BETs used in the game when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied is relatively high. Based on this, it is determined whether to give a bonus game (see FIG. 42, etc.).

In the above configuration, in the second lottery, a bonus game is awarded based on a prescribed table with a higher probability that a bonus game will be awarded as the number of BETs used in the game when it is determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied. Various controls related to the free game are executed such as determining whether or not to perform.
According to the above configuration, for example, the player can increase the number of BETs so that the probability of shifting to the bonus game in the second lottery is increased, and the player's involvement can be encouraged. You will be able to increase your interest in.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but only specific examples are illustrated, and the present invention is not particularly limited. The specific configuration of each unit and the like can be appropriately changed. The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

  Further, in the above detailed description, the characteristic portions have been mainly described so that the present invention can be easily understood. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the detailed description above, but can be applied to other embodiments, and the scope of application is various. The terms and terminology used in the present specification are used to describe the present invention accurately, and are not used to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Moreover, it would be easy for those skilled in the art to infer other configurations, systems, methods, and the like included in the concept of the present invention from the concept of the invention described in this specification. Accordingly, the description of the claims should be regarded as including an equivalent configuration without departing from the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. In addition, the purpose of the abstract is to simplify the technical contents and essence of this application by patent offices and general public institutions, and engineers belonging to this technical field who are not familiar with patents, legal terms or technical terms. It is intended to be able to make a quick determination through a simple survey. Therefore, the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to be evaluated by the description of the scope of claims. Moreover, in order to fully understand the object of the present invention and the specific effects of the present invention, it is desired that the interpretation should be made with sufficient consideration of the literatures already disclosed.

  The above detailed description includes processing executed by a computer. The above description and expression are described for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the most efficiently. In this specification, each step used to derive one result should be understood as a self-consistent process. In each step, transmission / reception, recording, and the like of electrical or magnetic signals are performed. In the processing in each step, such a signal is expressed by bits, values, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc., but these are used only for convenience of explanation. There is a need. In addition, the processing in each step may be described in an expression common to human behavior, but the processing described in this specification is executed by various devices in principle. Further, other configurations required for performing each step will be apparent from the above description.

10 Slot Machine 30 Control Panel 141 Lower Image Display Panel 142 Intermediate Image Display Panel

Claims (4)

A display unit having a symbol display area capable of displaying a symbol and a profit display area capable of displaying a value of the acquired profit;
A control unit for performing various controls,
The controller is
Determine whether or not the predetermined conditions are met, and if so, start the free game,
In the free game, a plurality of symbols including symbols with numerical values are rearranged in the symbol display area,
A gaming machine, wherein the numerical value is added to the value of the profit display area based on the rearrangement of the symbol indicating the numerical value in the symbol display area.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines the numerical value based on a BET number used in a game when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied. The display unit further includes a gaming chip display area capable of displaying gaming chips,
2. The gaming device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit adds the numerical value to the profit display area and displays the gaming chips having the numerical value stacked in the gaming chip display area. Machine. The plurality of symbols are provided in a plurality of symbol columns,
The symbol display area includes a plurality of columns and a plurality of rows.
The control unit adds each of the numerical values to the value of the profit display area one by one according to a predetermined order based on a plurality of symbols having the numerical values rearranged in the symbol display area. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein: